In this episode of the Boss Body Podcast, Dr. Tim Jackson interviews Dr. Emily Splichal, a board-certified podiatrist and specialist in barefoot training. They discuss the history and context of barefoot training, evaluating footwear choices, and the role of glute strengthening in controlling foot and knee alignment. Dr. Splichal emphasizes the importance of context and recommends transitioning to barefoot or minimalist shoes based on a patient’s foot type, injury history, and demands placed on their feet. They also discuss the benefits of earthing, foot recovery, and nutrition in foot health. Dr. Splichal hopes to start a professional organization for podiatry that appreciates integrative and holistic approaches.

Some highlights from this episode:

• Barefoot training explosion 

  Dr. Emily talks about the history of barefoot training and how it exploded in popularity around 15 years ago with the release of the book “Born to Run” and the Vibram Five Fingers and Nike Free shoes.

   

  Influence of footwear on knee injuries 

  Dr. Splichal discusses how footwear can influence knee injuries, particularly with high top shoes that put the foot in a plantar flexion position, and how restrictions in footwear can affect the entire kinetic chain.

   

  Criteria for transitioning to barefoot or minimalist shoes 

  Dr. Splichal explains her approach to transitioning patients to barefoot or minimalist shoes, taking into account foot type, injury history, and the demands placed on the foot, and emphasizes the importance of context in evaluating footwear choices.

   

  The Trend of High Stack Shoes 

  Dr. Splichal discusses the trend of high stack shoes, such as Hoka, and the sensory disconnection they create between the feet and the ground.

   

  The Importance of Proprioception and Touch 

  Dr. Splichal explains the two types of input that the brain receives from the foot and ankle: proprioception and touch. She emphasizes the importance of stimulating both types of input for optimal foot health.

   

  Choosing the Right Minimalist Shoe 

  Dr. Splichal provides tips on how to choose the right minimalist shoe, including considering the shape and width of the toe box, the fabric used for the upper, and the treads on the outside of the shoe.

   

  Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes 

  Dr. Splichal discusses the gradual transition from supportive to minimal shoes, starting with wearing them at the gym and eventually incorporating them into daily activities.

   

  Earthing and its Benefits 

  Dr. Splichal explains the benefits of earthing, including supporting inflammation, acidity, and microcirculation, and recommends doing it for 15 minutes every day.

   

  The Importance of Big Toe Extension in Athletics

  Dr. Splichal emphasizes the importance of big toe extension in athletics, particularly in basketball, and how insufficient range of motion can affect movement and energy flow.

   

  Understanding Foot Recovery

  Dr. Splichal discusses the importance of foot recovery in different sports and how to prevent foot stress and deformities.

   

  Choosing Minimalist or Barefoot Shoes 

  Dr. Splichal explains the natural shape of the foot and how to choose shoes with a wide toe box. She also recommends using toe spacers to support natural toe alignment.

   

  Supplements and Regenerative Injections 

  Dr. Splichal talks about using systemic enzymes and regenerative injections to support the body’s natural healing response. She also recommends supplements for neuropathies based on blood sugar levels and inflammation.

   

  The importance of proactive foot care 

  Dr. Splichal talks about patients who are proactive in taking care of their feet and how they can bulletproof their feet. She also shares her website, Instagram handle, and YouTube channel for more information.

   

  The need for functional regenerative podiatry

  Dr. Splichal discusses her goal of starting a professional organization for podiatry that teaches functional regenerative podiatry to the next generation of podiatrists.

   

  Closing remarks

  Dr. Jackson thanks Dr. Splichal for her work and hopes to have her back on the podcast in the future.

•  
•  

Connect with guest:

Dr Emily Splichal, Functional Podiatrist and Human Movement Specialist, is the Founder of EBFA Global, Creator of the Barefoot Training Specialist® Certification, Author of Barefoot Strong and CEO/Founder of Naboso Technology. With over 20 years in the fitness industry, Dr Splichal has dedicated her medical career towards studying postural alignment and human movement as it relates to barefoot science, foot to core integration and sensory integration.

Website: www.dremilysplichal.com

Website: www.naboso.com

Instagram: @thefunctionalfootdoc

Episode Transcript

Click the link below to read the transcript from today’s episode:

https://healyourbody.org/episode40

All the best,

Dr. Tim Jackson