Are you barefoot at home? Know what doctors say about this practice

ANDm child we always hear the classic recommendation: “Don’t walk barefoot so you don’t get sick” and we probably never realized how we could get sick. 

It is common to associate this habit with colds, but is it still so? Some doctors revealed to Huff Post some risks of this practicebut attention, there are also benefits! 

Clinical podiatrist Robert Conenello is one of the great advocates of the habit of establishing a direct contact between the total surface of the feet with the ground. For him, “even socks alter the mechanics of movement.”

What are the benefits of barefoot walking at home?

“ I am a great defender of walking barefoot at home (...) this increases muscle strength intrinsic to the feet ", says Conenello.

It also explains that the main benefit of barefoot walking is the strengthening of foot muscles, which tend to weaken “as we age and wear shoes.”

Since these muscles are closely linked to general mobility, the specialist says that their deterioration can contribute to the reduction of movement as we age.

“Many of the pathologies I see are due to the inability to activate these muscles for normal movements and metabolic efficiency,” he adds.

Dermatologist Hannah Kopelman also agrees that this assessment may bring unexpected benefits to the skin of the feet: “Leather barefoot allows the skin to breathe, which can help prevent moisture accumulation and reduce the risk of fungal infections such as the famous athlete’s foot,” he explains.

What are the disadvantages of this practice?

Although everything seems positive for foot health, there are other factors that should be taken into account: Walking barefoot indoors provides greater exposure to irritant substances or allergens such as dust, animal dandruff or cleaning products,” said dermatologist Kopelman.

For people with more sensitive skin types or with worrying chronic conditions, such as dermatitis or eczemas, this may represent a significant concern.

Although Conenello recognizes similar risks, he emphasizes that “adequate hygiene can help mitigate these risks.” 

“Dry your feet frequently, dry well and moisturize”, the expert adds.

Other risks:

• Possibility to slip;
• Beat your pinkie;
• Step on Legos or toys that kids leave scattered;
• Stepping on sharp objects that could cause injuries.

“ Likewise, people with diabetes, neuropathy or poor circulation should avoid walking barefoot due to increased risk of injuries or infections not perceived,” Kopelman adds.

As with anything else in life, these experts suggest that it is best to adopt a “half term”, that is, wear socks.

Conenello clarifies that it is a good way to prevent problems while enjoying some of the benefits of walking barefoot at home:  “There is a filter between the ground and the foot”.