Educational Articles: Foot Rehabilitation

How to Strengthen Intrinsic Foot Muscles

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

In this video, Dr. Ray McClanahan, a sports podiatrist at Northwest Foot and Ankle and the inventor of Correct Toes, answers the following question: What are your favorite ways to strengthen intrinsic foot muscles? Dr. Ray notes that the intrinsic foot muscles (aka plantar arch muscles) are a group of muscles that originate at the heel bone and attach to the toes. He also emphasizes the importance... Read more

How to Transition to Minimalist Shoes

Posted By Robyn Hughes, ND

How to transition to minimalist shoes

Many people are aware that a transition period is required when switching from conventional shoes to minimalist shoes (now sometimes referred to as “functional footwear”). In fact, this is one of the most common topics we hear about from patients and customers. Most people want to know the proper protocol for transitioning to men's or women's foot-healthy footwear—shoes, boots,... Read more


How to Use BlackBoard MobilizationBars

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

How to use BlackBoard MobilizationBars

Your ability to successfully navigate your way through life, in a physical sense, largely depends on the functional capabilities of your feet, and whether or not your feet can connect with the ground in a way that produces efficient, pain-free motion and movement. In order to realize the inherent potential of your feet to serve this important role, it’s crucial... Read more

How to Use BlackBoard PerformanceBars

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

How to use BlackBoard PerformanceBars

Your ability to competently compete or participate in your preferred sports or athletic activities largely depends on your ability to adapt and react to the terrain upon which you traverse and the conditions you encounter. In order to reduce the likelihood of injuries and perform at your highest level, it’s absolutely vital that your feet are as fit as possible,... Read more


How to Use BlackBoard ToeBands

Posted By Robyn Hughes, ND

How to use BlackBoard ToeBands

Take a moment to examine your fingers. They are strong, flexible, and have good motor coordination—similar in many ways to the toes. Of course, fingers and toes are not the same thing, but imagine what it would be like if you put your hands in boxing gloves all day long and couldn’t use your fingers to grip, type, write, or... Read more

How to Use the BlackBoard Basic

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

How to use the BlackBoard Basic

Your feet play a vital role in your musculoskeletal system. They absorb your footfalls, efficiently transform potential energy into movement, and help dictate the position of your knees, hips, and spine. Many long-term joint and soft tissue problems originate at the foundation of the body—in the feet—and that’s why healthy foot form and function are so incredibly important. This... Read more


How to Use the Human Locomotion ToePro

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

How to Use the Human Locomotion ToePro

The ToePro foot and ankle exercise platform, created by the legendary Dr. Tom Michaud—chiropractor and author of the influential textbook Human Locomotion: The Conservative Management of Gait-Related Disorders—is designed to enhance musculoskeletal function by exercising the muscles of the foot and lower leg in their lengthened positions. Research shows that, in addition to improving agility, running speed, and... Read more

How to Use the Human Locomotion Two-to-One Ankle Rockboard

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

How to Use the Human Locomotion Two-to-One Ankle Rockboard

The Human Locomotion Two-to-One Ankle Rockboard, created by the renowned Dr. Tom Michaud, is designed to strengthen the muscles of your lower legs, fortify your ankles against injury, improve your balance, and help you achieve or maintain full ankle range of motion. One of the most common ways to improve ankle function is to use ankle... Read more


How to Use the Naboso Kinesis Board

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

How to Use the Naboso Kinesis Board

Wobble boards have long been used in physical therapy clinics and other healthcare settings as a tool for improving patients’ balance and ankle stability. These boards are often used in a home-based setting, too, by those seeking improved balance and foot and musculoskeletal function. What separates the Naboso Kinesis Board from other wobble boards is the fact that... Read more

Love Your Feet!

Posted By Robyn Hughes, ND

Feet are a part of the body that sometimes go neglected. But it's important to show your feet the affection and attention they deserve. Loving your feet means appreciating their incredible and brilliant design and caring for your them in a way that supports and encourages their long-term health. Understanding the numerous structures and unique architecture of your feet can help you better appreciate the amazing work... Read more