In most cases, yes! In our experience, we’ve found that a combination of certain foot exercises and proper foot and toe positioning is a helpful and effective way to build or restore your main foot arch: the medial longitudinal arch. Many people who have flat feet benefit from exercises that return the big toe to its normal anatomical position; that is, splayed away from the second toe. Proper toe orientation...
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Barefoot walking is part of our natural foot health heritage. Our ancestors walked barefoot across a variety of terrain and in a variety of climatic conditions. Many people around the world still walk barefoot, or in minimalist footwear, without experiencing the kind of foot and toe issues—such as bunions, crooked toes, and neuromas—that plague many shoe-wearing individuals. So, is walking barefoot a good strategy for achieving optimal foot health? For...
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The intrinsic foot muscles (aka plantar arch muscles) are a group of muscles that originate at the heel bone and attach to the toes. Operating in conjunction with the toe bones to provide a basis of strength, flexibility, and balance, these muscles are integral for optimal foot health. So what exercises can you do to strengthen them? And what can that do for your overall health? The first step in...
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Arch function plays a critical role in cross-country skiing performance, and understanding how to optimize it can have a profound impact on both your efficiency and long-term foot health. The arch is not just a static structure—it’s a dynamic, spring-like system designed to absorb impact, store energy, and facilitate powerful movement. In Nordic skiing, where propulsion and glide efficiency are paramount, a well-functioning arch helps you generate and transfer force...
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Despite mounting evidence highlighting the drawbacks of conventional footwear and orthotics, these products remain remarkably prevalent. One major reason is the deep entrenchment of cultural norms and aesthetic standards that prioritize fashion over function. Pointy-toed shoes, elevated heels, toe spring, and rigid soles are all features that have become synonymous with style and social status, even though they compromise the foot’s natural shape and function. For decades, these design elements...
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