The Genius Life 535: The Surprising Link Between Foot Health, Longevity, and Brain Health | Courtney Conley, DC
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Dec 17, 2025 Dr. Courtney Connolly, a foot and gait specialist, discusses the surprising connection between foot health and overall wellness. She highlights how weak feet can lead to various pains and even impact longevity and brain health. Courtney delves into the importance of proper footwear, advocating for wide toe boxes and minimal cushioning. She emphasizes the significance of daily stepping and walking, recommending tailored walking programs to improve health. Plus, she shares practical foot care tips, making a strong case for healthy feet as the foundation of a healthy life.
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Train In Shoes That Let Your Foot Feel Ground
- Train and lift barefoot or in minimal shoes for strength work so the foot can feel the ground and provide stability.
- Use task-specific footwear: a stable ground-feel shoe for lifting and different shoes for other activities.
Cushioning Reduces Proprioception And Strength
- Excessive cushion, high heel-to-toe drop, and toe spring let shoes do the work and cause foot and ankle weakening.
- Over-cushioning also blunts proprioception and alters loading patterns, increasing knee and hip loads.
Let Your Foot Graze The Heel While Walking
- Walk with a softer gait and bring the foot closer to the center of mass to reduce knee and hip loading.
- Remove bulky shoes when assessing gait so your foot can graze the heel and initiate pronation properly.
