A common misconception is that shock forces generated when we walk, run, or stand for long periods of time cause tired, achy feet.

In reality, poor mechanics caused by footwear use cause tired, achy feet. Over time, footwear-trained poor mechanics become the maladapted norm. That means that poor foot function is observed when barefoot and not only when in shoes.

Each foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments, and 19 muscles, tendons, and millions of nerve endings.

The functional movement and stability of the feet are controlled by muscles that are activated by the brain in response to the sensory information from the nerve endings.

Foot-related muscles comprise two groups:

1. Intrinsic muscles: small muscles in the feet that primarily control ‘fine-tuned’ movements such as picking something up with the toes

2. Extrinsic muscles: larger muscles in the lower legs that are principally involved in propulsion and in control of the stability of the foot’s arch system, the foot’s adaption to terrain, and management of weight bearing forces.

When the extrinsic muscles do not do their job as a result of poor neuromuscular function, the intrinsic muscles attempt to assume the load, which causes them to overwork and fatigue, which leads to tired, achy feet.

Modern science has identified that the nervous system plays a critical role in stabilizing the feet and ankles when walking or running. It is now understood that poor foot function is a symptom of inefficient neuromuscular function caused by conventional footwear use. In fact, conventional footwear use causes poor neuromuscular function throughout the feet, legs, hips, and back, when:

the soles of the feet don’t receive the subtle, varied stimulus that the nervous system requires for healthy function,

• snug toe boxes, stiff midsoles/outsoles/uppers and tight lacing restrict healthy foot movement, and

• footwear midsoles / outsoles feature a concave supporting surface under the metatarsal heads.

To learn more about how footwear affects function and performance, click HERE.

The best way to prevent and treat tired, achy feet is to retrain healthy neuromuscular function and to use footwear that is soft, flexible, and roomier in the forefoot.

Conventional treatment methods for tired, achy feet.

Since the late 1890s, the standard treatment for poor foot mechanics has been to artificially support the arches with an orthotic. Other conventional treatment options include:

• Cushioning products

• Exercise

• Ice

• Massage

Modern science has transitioned away from using long-term support and cushioning on any body part because it causes a progressive weakening of the body part being supported or cushioned.

The modern approach to treating tired, achy feet

Science underscores the body's inherent ability to restore and improve its own function when presented with the appropriate challenges. This principle lies at the heart of contemporary therapeutic methods used to correct and enhance neuromuscular function, particularly in foot health.

Therapeutic rehabilitation, focusing on the body's natural mechanics and responses, emerges as the safest and most effective strategy for addressing the underlying causes of conditions like tired, achy feet shifting the focus from temporary relief to long-term health and functionality.

Understanding the Fundamentals:

• Proper Technique: This refers to rehabilitative exercises that concentrate on re-establishing optimal neuromuscular function. It's about reinforcing healthy mobility, muscle strength, stability, and alignment in a safe manner.

• Right Stimulus and Right Movement: Effective movement is predicated on the quality of sensory information the brain receives, particularly from the soles of the feet. The feet's nerve endings are crucial in transmitting this data, ensuring coordinated movement throughout the musculoskeletal system. When sensory input is compromised—as is often the case with conventional footwear—the body's natural reflexes and movements can be inhibited.

Adopting the Modern Approach:

1. Barefoot Walking: Engage in barefoot walking, particularly on natural surfaces, as frequently as feasible. This practice delivers the optimal stimulus for healthy neuromuscular function, promoting the right kind of movement.

2. Utilization of Biopods®: Incorporate Biopods footwear or insoles into your routine. Our footwear is designed to create an ideal environment for proper foot technique, while our insoles are crafted to enhance the sensory feedback in your conventional shoes. For optimal results, use in footwear that is soft, flexible, and allows for natural movement of the arches and toes.

3. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Prior injuries might have led to the formation of fibrotic scar tissue. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare practitioner about therapies that can address these issues to facilitate better foot function.

Conclusion:

The modern approach to foot health is integrative and proactive, focusing on encouraging the body's natural ability to heal and maintain itself. It's an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing, steering away from temporary fixes and instead, fostering lasting, comprehensive foot health.

Consult with your healthcare practitioner to ask about employing soft tissue mobilization therapies to address the fibrotic scar tissue that may have formed prior to using Biopods.

• For more information on what to expect when using Biopods, click HERE.