Walking or standing barefoot for long stretches — particularly on hard floors — can lead to increased pressure and stress on the feet due to a lack of cushion and protection, which can lead to foot pain such as plantar fasciitis (pain and inflammation across the bottom of the foot), metatarsalgia (pain at the ball of the foot), and tendinitis (i Proponents of "barefooting" claim that going barefoot more often is better for the health of your feet than keeping them protected by shoes when you're outside. Most people tend to wear shoes on their feet when they're not in the comfort of their own homes. Sure, it's now a tradition in our modern culture to wear shoes. But according to researchers, it may benefit your feet (and the rest of your body) to go barefoot in your downtime. Still wondering if going bare is for you? Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of each option: Pros of Walking Barefoot You Get Back in Touch Risks associated with walking around barefoot 1. Athlete's Foot "Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the foot that develops commonly on the soles of the feet and in between the toes," Dr. Adobe Walking Barefoot Can Cause Foot Problems I'm not the only one with more foot pain since the pandemic. Walking barefoot in your house is relatively safe. But when you head outside, you expose yourself to potential risks that could be dangerous. "Without appropriate strength in the foot, you "Training barefoot may improve agility, ankle stability, and the positioning of the joint, if done correctly," Mace notes. 1 "For some, this may relieve minor niggles, such as a low arch or pain from repetitive movements like running." But before you decide to ditch your shoes, there are some things to consider. Allowing your feet to go bare can help you avoid painful foot problems as well as allow your feet and legs to become stronger and self-supportive. Studies are showing that "earthing" can actually change the electrical activity in the brain, creating physiological changes and increased wellbeing. Avoid walking barefoot outside of the house in most places unless absolutely necessary (such as when participating in yoga) and when you do inspect and cleanse your feet immediately to avoid contracting an infection. You can use baby wipes to first clean the feet and even an anti-fungal spray to kill any fungus prophylactically. However, you should always be aware of your surroundings and make sure it's safe for you to walk barefoot (i.e. the terrain isn't sharp or has the potential to injure your feet). If you're wondering whether walking barefoot is the right move for you, it's always best to consult your primary doctor before hitting the grass. BE93k.