Barefoot walking: health benefits and medical precautions

Medical experts and podiatrists are discussing the benefits and risks of barefoot walking, often referred to as 'earthing'. When performed on natural, soft surfaces like sand or grass, the practice can strengthen the muscles of the feet, ankles, and calves, while improving proprioception and balance.

However, specialists warn that walking on hard surfaces like concrete can cause plantar fasciitis due to repetitive impact. There are also risks of infection or injury from sharp objects. When walking on beaches, podiatrist José Berna suggests that walking on firmer sand near the shoreline is preferable to soft sand, which can cause excessive fatigue and pain due to instability.