A recent article that appeared in Science Daily contained a report from Patrick McKeon, who is a professor in the School of Health Sciences and Human Performance Department at Ithaca College. This article discusses the many health benefits of going barefoot. Doctors who work with sports medicine New Haven note that common problems associated with the feet decrease if a person spends time walking barefoot.

The problems include:

• bursitis
• pain in the Achilles tendon
• plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel)
• shin splints
• stress fractures

Michael Sandler and Jessica Lee wrote a book entitled “Barefoot Walking,” which gives more benefits from spending regular amounts of time each week walking barefoot.

The other benefits include:

• Better Posture - This naturally encourages a person to stand taller.
• Greater Balance - Barefoot contact with the ground naturally increases balance.
• Grounding with the earth (negative charge) reduces damaging free radicals in the body (positively charged).
• Stronger Legs and Abs - Barefoot walking tones the entire group of muscles in the legs and helps build up the abdominal muscles as well.
• Improves Blood Pressure - Blood pressure naturally decreases when walking barefoot

• Improves Circulation - Letting the toes have room to flex and using more leg muscles increases blood flow to the legs and feet. This improves varicose veins and reduces aches in the legs.
• Increased body awareness - Getting outside more often and out of shoes creates a natural awareness of the body.
• Reduce Inflammation in all parts of the body.
• Reduces Stress
• Acupressure Points - Barefoot walking stimulates the nerve endings in the feet.
• Feet Become Stronger - The soles of the feet get thicker and stronger.

Going for a barefoot walk also called “earthing,” means to walk on natural surfaces, such as grass, sand, or earth. In other words, get off the cement sidewalk and walk out into a natural field.

Research Studies
Scientific studies reviewed in Journal of Environmental and Public Health confirm that patients who have regular direct connection to the negative charge of the earth have a health benefit. The body absorbs electrons from the earth. Those who suffer from chronic pain get some relief. Brain function improves and this effect is measurable by an EEG. The viscosity (thickness) of blood decreases and the blood circulates throughout the body more easily, which improves heart function.

Conclusion
As those working with sports medicine in New Haven already know, going for a walk is great exercise, and it is even better when a person takes off their shoes.