What exercises shouldn’t be done barefoot. The podiatrist explained

orthopedic traumatologist of the OPTEKA orthopedic salon chain

Barefoot training is not always safe for the musculoskeletal system. Here’s why.

The feet take on shock loads when walking, protecting the musculoskeletal system from them. It is this shock-absorbing function that keeps your joints and spine safe during movement.

When people didn’t know what an automobile or bus was, they walked. There was no asphalt and many people walked barefoot on the ground, grass and sand. This is what our feet are designed for: their arched shape is ideal for walking on uneven ground. That is why our ancestors did not suffer from flat feet.

Today, a typical city dweller has nowhere to walk without shoes. He moves on foot quite rarely, gets to work on public transportation, and then sits at the computer all day. This lifestyle, of course, has affected the entire musculoskeletal system, particularly the feet. Now the feet need support and protection. Especially during sports.

And how to choose clothes for training, we told you in a previous article – read it at the link.

What happens when we go barefoot

Let’s start with the fact that even walking around the house is recommended in good house shoes, better orthopedic. This is especially true for those who have a floor in the apartment made of laminate, porcelain stoneware or tiles. Walking on such a surface can lead to the fact that the shock wave during movement will spread to the joints. And this contributes to their wear and tear. In addition, excessive load is also received and the spine. And, of course, it is the feet themselves that suffer first of all.

Walking or doing sports barefoot is not recommended for flat feet. This is probably the most common orthopedic disease, the presence of which many people do not even realize. Usually, symptoms such as pain and fatigue in the feet are ignored, thinking that such sensations are natural.

Flat feet impairs the shock-absorbing function of the feet and prevents them from properly cushioning shock loads. This pathology increases the risk of osteoarthritis, arthritis, plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the ligament that connects the heel bone to the toes) and other orthopedic diseases.

What exercises should not be done barefoot

Strong impacts on hard surfaces during physical activity increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. If we talk directly about training, everything depends on their type and intensity. Exercises that involve high impact loads on the feet, it is better to wear shoes (jumping jacks, lunges, etc.). Of course, it is not necessary to put on shoes before doing gymnastics or yoga.

Exercise at home and in the gym with the right shoes. Do not neglect orthopedic insoles. There are special models for training, which will help protect the feet and joints from shock loads. How to choose the right shoes for fitness, read in the article at the link.

Remember that in everyday life to wear heels, shoes on a completely flat sole and with a narrow nose is also not recommended. Such shoes negatively affect the entire musculoskeletal system and contribute to the development of diseases.

Do not forget to periodically visit an orthopedic traumatologist to monitor the condition of the musculoskeletal system. Many orthopedic conditions develop at a young age. If you experience pain in your legs, back or neck, don’t delay or ignore these symptoms – see a doctor right away. This will help avoid more serious problems in the future.