Physical exercise that challenges, or at least activates to a reasonable degree, the aerobic (oxidative phosphorylation) system has been shown to increase the formation of new neurons within the dentate gyrus component of the hippocampus (assisting in the “material” act of recollection) [1]. Physical exercise in general also tends to increase the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (or BDNF), a protein involved in the mediation of synaptic plasticity and hippocampal-dependent learning (meaning exercise tends to improve cognitive ability), as well as augment the protection against oxidative stress (in the brain and throughout the body) and cognitive decline provided by omega-3 fatty acids [2] [3].
For those with young lads or lasses, it has been well established that increases in motor development and refinement (such as that offered by participation in athletics, dance, or simply playing outside) parallel improvements in language acquisition and mathematic competency in developing children [4]. The learning or acquisition of new motor patterns or skills (such as learning how to perform a new exercise) can increase the number of new neurons formed in the hippocampus that survive to maturity (most die within about two weeks of their formation) – expanding the physical network available to the brain for accessing memory [5]. The learning of new motor skills also induces structural changes in neural pathways of white matter, increases in myelination (myelination basically allows for faster propagation of signals), and changes in the structural architecture of gray matter [6] [7]. Such changes could allow for an improved ability to adapt to environmental stimuli and respond optimally to improvements in the patterns of information and energy flow brought about by Tai Chi and Yogic asana practice. Lastly, motor skill acquisition has been shown to increase striatal dopamine release, which may assist in protecting against the development of Parkinson’s disease and addictive conditions or behavior [8]. Of course, the beneficial effects upon cognition derived from movement of the human body extend far beyond biochemistry and encompass the matrix through which our psyche, senses, and energetic environment influence not only the brain’s translation of data, but also the mind’s functionality and creative directive (a concept alluded to in the world of “embodied cognition”). Obviously physical exercise is beneficial for about a million reasons, but cognitive enhancement is certainly one of them. References:
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Because the MTHFR gene has recently become a significant token of interest in functional medicine circles, I thought I’d offer a quick rundown in case you were curious.
The MTHFR gene is responsible for the manufacturing of the MTHFR enzyme (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) and mutations or defects within this gene can place one at a higher risk for developing a variety of health conditions. Some of the diseases or conditions of ill-health to which MTHFR mutations have been linked (largely due to decreases in methylation capacity) include: autism, fibromyalgia, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, IBS, endometriosis, prostate cancer, asthma, and hypertension. The most problematic of mutations are those which occur at either the 1298 or 677 locations (or both locations). The MTHFR enzyme’s role is to convert folate (vitamin B9) from “5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate” to “5-methyltetrahydrofolate,” the active and usable form of folate. 5-methyltetrahydrofolate is then used in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. To quickly cover the basics, a decrease in the production of the MTHFR enzyme (due to a genetic mutation) can lead to higher levels of homocysteine and lower levels of glutathione and methionine. Elevations in homocysteine can increase one’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease as well as for inducing neural tube defects, among other issues [1] [2]. An alteration to the synthesis of methionine and folate metabolites can negatively impact DNA replication, repair, and expression, as well as significantly hamper one’s methylation capacity (arguably the chief problem with MTHFR mutations as methylation is involved in an astronomical number of bodily processes) [3]. Decreases in glutathione (a primary antioxidant and detoxification agent) production can contribute to the development of a host of issues as toxins accumulate, inflammation runs awry, and oxidative stress damages cells. Now, obviously an incredibly complex matrix of interplay and operation dictates the functionality of the human body, so simply identifying a mutation of the MTHFR gene and then prescribing a supplement of 5-MTHF and methylcobalamin (methylated B12) is a little kindergarten-ish. Many factors shape the expression of the MTHFR gene and the ultimate actions of the MTHFR enzyme’s cascade. Additionally, the bacterial species Lactobacillus helveticus is capable of compensating for MTHFR defects by manufacturing 5-MTHF (5-methyltetrahydrofolate) itself [4]. That being said, MTHFR mutations are certainly worth knowing about as they may be a strong player in the etiology of one’s health conditions. Hence, for your information, genetic testing (via a blood sample) for mutations within the MTHFR gene can be conducted for around $200 (it’s sometimes covered by insurance, usually not though), and a concomitant Methylation Pathways Panel can also be conducted which can provide helpful insight into your methylation capacity and the extent to which any present mutations may be causing problems. Having a highly knowledgeable naturopath or functional medicine practitioner interpret the results of such testing is recommended. References:
Firstly, of course humans do not undergo the entirety of photosynthesis in the exact manner as plants do. We do however, utilize light from our sun in many ways, one of which is the enhancement of ATP production within mitochondria. We know that the ingestion of chlorophyll-containing plants leads to the formation of chlorophyll metabolites which retain the ability to absorb light at wavelengths within the visible spectrum [1] [2]. These chlorophyll metabolites can increase ATP production by catalyzing the reduction (adding of electrons) of ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10) within mitochondria – the reduction of ubiquinone is a rate-limiting step in cellular respiration [3]. Therefore, a deficiency of chlorophyll in one’s diet and/or a lack of sunlight exposure can decrease the amount of ATP their body produces (this is primarily why you usually feel more energized when exercising outside).
A second way in which we use sunlight is to enhance energy production via melanin’s dissociation of water and donation of electrons to the electron transport chain [4] [5]. Melanin is the name given to a group of sulfur-containing pigments predominately found in the skin, hair, and eyes. Noteworthy is the fact that melanin is capable of absorbing light waves from all wavelengths of the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared bands. This is a primary mechanism through which the adepts are capable of sustaining their physical bodies largely through the practice of sun gazing. As I discuss in my treatise on Yoga (entitled: Ambrosia descending), outside of conventional understanding, our mitochondria are capable of metabolizing white light emitted by our Overselves (as well as our sun), and our ATP can differentiate such white light into the seven colors of the visible light spectrum. This differentiated light can then be used by latent DNA encodements in facilitating the ascension process, when one is ready to undergo that process. Yogic adepts who are nearing the attainment of enlightenment can more fully “extract” and utilize the sun’s full-spectrum light, hence their more regular practice of sun gazing. A third way our bodies utilize the sunlight we receive is to induce a charge separation of water and form “structured” or liquid-crystalline sheets of water (commonly referred to as water’s fourth phase) [6]. This structured state of water is immensely important as not only does it provide a chief means of communication for the body (both physical and electromagnetic), but it also allows bodily water to serve as a battery in generating usable energy. Additionally, the charge separation that takes place in the formation of structured or liquid-crystalline water assists in the maintenance of the body’s net, negative electrical charge. This negative electrical state provides for the proper sustaining of the body’s health. For example, we naturally produce antioxidants to combat the oxidation (removing electrons, increasing positive electrical charge) of the body’s components. The electrical state of the body essentially translates into its acid/alkaline balance for pH can be seen as a measure of electrical resistance or conductivity. These three points go to show the inaccuracy of the glucose-centered model that dominates the conventional understanding of bioenergetics, specifically in relation to medicine and exercise science. Be watchful of health professionals who adhere to the “calories-in vs. calories-out” schema as it is ridiculously invalid. Bottom line recommendations: eat your greens, drink more water, and get some sun. Have a great rest of your week! References:
While many folks are quite familiar with the biochemical actions of essential oils and their components, less widely understood is their metaphysical or electromagnetic actions when administered to a human being. Accordingly, let’s briefly discuss the mechanisms through which essential oils can be used in the resolution or healing of emotional scars or imprints.
Firstly, within the nose are tiny cilia which essentially serve as odorant receptors. When you inhale the components of an essential oil, some of the molecules will bind to these receptors and elicit a neural impulse to the olfactory bulb (a smell processing center). The olfactory bulb will then send a collection of information to the brain’s olfactory network regarding the sensed odor (or the molecules which bound to the cilia receptors) [1]. This information can also be translated to the components of the limbic system, including the hypothalamus, the cingulate gyrus, the hippocampus, and the amygdala. For our purposes, the hypothalamus and cingulate gyrus cooperatively function in the body’s response to emotions and the assignment of emotional valence (which is basically the degree of attractiveness or aversiveness to emotional stimuli) [2]. The hippocampus and amygdala help provide for a kind of emotional memory and the learning of associating fear with sensory input, which provides the primary basis for how a stimulation of these brain centers via essential oil use can facilitate the releasing or resolving of emotional trauma [3] [4]. The secondary basis revolves around how emotions and thoughts exhibit electromagnetic profiles which are capable of altering the architecture of cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix components within the body. An extracellular matrix can be defined as the environment existing immediately outside of and between cells which primarily serves as a medium for nutrient and waste product transfer, as well as conductance of neural, chemical, mechanical, and electromagnetic data. A cytoskeleton can be viewed as the scaffolding or structural framework within a cell that extends inward to the nucleus as well as outward to the extracellular matrix, forming a physical connection between the cell’s environment and its nucleus (which houses DNA) [5]. Relevant to this article is the manner in which cytoskeletons and extracellular matrices can be remodeled through the experiencing or suppressing of emotional content. Such remodeling can then affect cell and tissue function as well as contribute to the development of poor postural or movement habits as various connective tissues are reshaped and/or held in patterns of tension. Thus, the removal or healing of the imprint left by the experiencing or suppression of an emotion through the employment of essential oils can significantly affect physiological function in a positive way. Lastly, because the limbic system has a strong connection to the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, a shift toward parasympathetic dominance brought about by inhaling essential oils can calm the nervous system and attenuate the fear response which could be invoked when an emotional imprint is released [6] [7]. This could allow the patient a more effective opportunity to accept, understand, and grow from their emotional experiencing and free the physical body from the “chains” of fear regarding the emotional experiencing, especially if any associated thoughts or beliefs are being avoided or suppressed out of fear. In summary, the use of aromatherapy can be quite efficacious in the healing of emotional trauma via the elicitation of a cascade of biochemical and biophysical actions within the human being which, collectively, possess the ability to facilitate the resolving of emotional imprints upon the psyche and connective tissues of the physical body. References:
MicroRNAs are very small, non-coding RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules which play a large role in the regulation of genetic expression. Both plant- and animal-derived microRNAs (from plant foods and animal foods) are able to pass through the gut wall and be transported to various tissues where they may directly influence the expression of genes [1]. It’s worth noting that microRNAs are very stable and will remain intact after exposure to the temperatures used in cooking (so both raw and cooked foods will supply microRNAs to the body). The specific roles played by microRNAs in the body are varied but following are a few of them. MicroRNAs can help tremendously in thwarting cancer development by positively guiding cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis (programmed cell death), downregulating overactive oncogenes (genes associated with the facilitation of tumor growth), and by simply serving as tumor suppressors [2] [3]. MicroRNAs are also involved in processes concerning stem cell differentiation, neuronal development, pathogenic viral replication, glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, kidney function and health, cholesterol and triglyceride metabolism, and even skeletal muscle development and adaption to exercise [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10].
No need to delve any deeper into the functionality of microRNAs as I just wanted to quickly highlight their importance in the regulation of our body’s health and how their actions serve as a major foundation for why “you are what you eat.” Our understanding of microRNAs also illuminates the danger of consuming genetically-modified foods as the information and influence relayed to the body via the microRNAs present in such foods can be significantly foreign and detrimental, based largely upon the food that is modified as well as the nature and degree of the food’s modification. In other words, how about we stop thinking that we’re capable of outsmarting Mother Nature and go back to simply eating the whole foods she provided for us, because I think it’s pretty obvious by now that she didn’t make any mistakes. Have a good one. References:
Here I just thought it would be worthwhile for us to go over a few facts relating to bra-wearing and the manifestation of breast cancer. Firstly, credit is due to Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismaijer, who have co-authored two books on this topic that include the results of their independent research. Now, when it comes to cancerous conditions, of course we can’t state that variable X causes variable Y – the body operates within a labyrinth of variables that remain dynamic. So a number of factors can be at play, and there are multiple pathways that can lead to the development of tumors or cancerous states.
Therefore, what we can say is this: bra-wearing does not cause breast cancer, but bra-wearing can play a role in the development of breast cancer, with the magnitude of that role being dependent upon many factors. Let’s at least identify the three factors which are the most obvious and the most influential = the tightness of the bras commonly worn, the length of time in which a bra is worn each day, and the woman’s overall state of health. There have been a few published papers regarding the wearing of bras and breast cancer risk, but I don’t feel the conclusions drawn therein are much beyond common sense (you can take a look at them if you want though, I’ll list them below) [1] [2] [3]. The major pathway that links bra-wearing to breast cancer involves the ischemic compression of breast tissue from notably-tight bras which interferes with the full delivery of nutrients into mammary cells and the full excretion of wastes from these cells through the blood and lymph. Toxins transported to the area of the breasts from elsewhere in the body can also become trapped from the same compression as almost 90% of the breasts’ lymphatic drainage takes place through the lymph nodes in the armpits (so if your bras are super tight, this drainage can be impeded to some degree) [4]. Additionally, the formation of “radial scars” or breast lesions from inflammation and/or ischemia due to the prolonged wearing of tight bras can play a part in facilitating the onset of breast cancer [5]. Yet with all of this said, I don’t believe a significant fear of wearing bras needs to be instilled. I just wanted to give you a little information so that you’re aware of some things. Though I do think it’s a great idea to let the twins get some fresh air and see the light of day from time to time. Along the same lines, if you don’t feel like wearing a bra underneath your top while in public, don’t let someone tell you that you can’t. It’s your body, it’s your health, and it’s your decision. It’s not the decision of some dunce who’s five years old and can’t handle the fact that women have breasts. Enjoy the rest of your weekend. References:
The term ‘cellulite’ is typically used to describe a visible condition of subcutaneous adipose or fat tissue herniating into the layer of skin known as the dermis. Human skin tissue is principally composed of three layers: the outermost layer termed the epidermis, the middle layer termed the dermis (which houses the blood and lymph vessels), and the bottom layer termed the hypodermis or subcutaneous layer (which is mainly composed of adipose and connective tissue). The condition of cellulite, in and of itself, is not a pathological one, but excessive or abnormal cellulite development can be a symptom of toxicity and hormonal imbalance.
The etiology of cellulite is certainly multifactorial, but let’s look at a few of the chief factors at play. Firstly, one reason why cellulite and adiposity are more prevalent in women than in men is simply because of hormonal dissimilarities. As women tend to have much higher levels of the estrogen hormones (estrone, estradiol, and estriol), they tend to accumulate more adipose tissue due to a greater stimulation of alpha-adrenergic receptors (which support lipogenesis) and lipoprotein lipase (an enzyme which helps break down lipids and store the resultant fatty acids in adipose tissue) [1]. The estrogen hormones also play a role in dictating the permeability of blood vessels, with a greater concentration of estrogens tending to promote an increase in blood vessel permeability (which can lead to localized edema or fluid accumulation) [2]. Such fluid accumulation in the intercellular space can inhibit the proper exchange of nutrients and waste products between cells and the blood/lymph. If this takes place within skin tissue near the thighs, hips, and buttocks (common sites of adipose tissue accumulation in women), then a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin fibers (connective tissue fibers within the subcutaneous skin layer) can occur which can weaken the subcutaneous layer’s containment of adipose cells, allowing them to more easily herniate or protrude into the above dermis layer, leading to the “dimpled” appearance of the skin [3]. Along similar lines, congestion within the lymphatic system can lead to fluid accumulation in the intercellular space, adipose cell inflammation, and toxin accumulation within extracellular matrices [4] [5]. Such events can lead to cellulite development and they can stem from the wearing of tight-fitting clothing (such as pantyhose) and high-heeled shoes which can impair lymphatic drainage. Also, postural compensations from the chronic wearing of high-heeled shoes can lead to the development of myofascial adhesions and muscular inflammation, which can also promote the development of cellulite. Toxin accumulation, independent of lymphatic congestion, is a major factor in cellulite’s etiology as lipid-soluble toxins (such as heavy metals, artificial preservatives, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial pollutants) are often “quarantined” within adipose tissue by the body, especially when the liver’s detoxification duties are overwhelmed. This quarantining of toxic material can not only increase fat tissue accumulation, but can also irritate, acidify, and inflame the connective tissue fibers within the subcutaneous layer, weakening their ability to properly contain the surrounding adipose cells (leading to the appearance of dimpled skin). The last chief factor at play in the development of cellulite is the hormone insulin, as high circulating levels of this hormone can increase the activity of lipoprotein lipase and the expression of SREBP-1 (a protein strongly involved in lipogenesis) [6] [7]. Consistently elevated insulin levels from a diet composed of many high-glycemic carbohydrates can also elicit and perpetuate inflammatory processes, leading to continued adipose and connective tissue inflammation and the further accumulation of adipose tissue (all of which can increase the severity of cellulite) [8]. So, with all of that in mind, I feel it is probably quite obvious that the typical treatments for cellulite (including ointments, salves, massage techniques, skin brushing, shockwave therapy, laser therapy, heat therapy, Endermologie, liposuction, subcision, and injectables) are going to yield disappointing results in the effective and lasting resolution of cellulite as they fail to truly address the underlying progenitors. Hormonal imbalances (mainly estrogen and insulin) and toxin accumulation are the primary factors in the development of cellulite, and these factors are appropriately resolved through dietary and detoxification interventions. Advice regarding these interventions is beyond the scope of this article but a highly knowledgeable nutritionist should be able to help you put together an individualized dietary plan, and a highly knowledgeable naturopathic physician should be able to guide you through an appropriate detoxification protocol. In any case, I hope this article was helpful to you in wading through the nonsense out there concerning cellulite and in gaining a greater understanding of its proper prevention and resolution. References:
To begin, let’s quickly define and describe the auditory brainstem responses known as “binaural beats.” Our brains are typically capable of detecting differential phases from carrier tones which fall below a frequency level of 1500 Hz. This detection of a phase differential is what allows for the brain to perceive a binaural beat. The binaural beat essentially manifests as a third carrier tone which the brain is able to distinguish among the original two carrier tones (of a slightly different frequency) delivered to each ear. Once this auditory pattern is perceived it is routed through the reticular formation and into the cerebral cortex at which point a variety of neurological adaptations have been documented to be invoked, some of which include: improved relaxation, enhanced memory deposition and recall, psychological repatterning, improved creativity, altered states of consciousness, and altered arousal states [1].
Now let’s take a look at a research article which was published in 2014 within the peer-reviewed, academic journal Frontiers in Psychology. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the research team of Patrick A. McConnell, Brett Froeliger, Eric L. Garland, Jeffrey C. Ives, and Gary A. Sforzo investigated what effect(s) the administration of an auditory pattern invoking a binaural beat might have on one’s HRV (heart rate variability) and self-reported relaxation score [2]. The dependent variable of HRV was chosen as a marker for autonomic arousal after the subjects performed 20 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise. One’s HRV is the normal fluctuation in cardiac rhythm in-between heartbeats and is used as a measure of activity interplay between the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. Specifically, a lower HRV would indicate a lower vagal tone (less parasympathetic activity) and a higher HRV would indicate a higher vagal tone (more parasympathetic activity). In essence, the more one’s heart rhythm is fluctuating in-between beats, the more relaxed their nervous system, and vice versa. Even though measuring one’s HRV using an ECG (electrocardiogram) does not allow for distinction to be made between central vagal activity (in the brain) and peripheral vagal activity (outside the brain), I still feel that this study’s findings are quite notable. Using “wide-band,” theta-frequency binaural beats, the research team observed a statistically significant increase in parasympathetic activity, sympathetic withdrawal, and self-reported relaxation score. Now, while we cannot draw too many conclusions from a single study, I do feel it is acceptable to at least note the potential that brainwave entrainment using binaural beats (or something similar) may have in augmenting physiological recovery from exercise. Certainly HRV monitoring is already widely employed in strength and conditioning circles, yet perhaps the next phase of its employment will involve techniques or modalities (such as the use of binaural beats) for proactively influencing HRV responses to prescribed exercise programs. References:
First off, electromyography (EMG) is a technique employed in measuring electrical activity induced by neural stimulation of skeletal muscle. Two primary versions of EMG are typically used: surface EMG and intramuscular EMG. Surface EMG refers to the use of electrodes being placed on the surface of the skin to measure translated electrical activity from muscular contraction. While convenient, surface EMG can be quite inaccurate due to interference by subcutaneous adipose tissue and translated electrical activity from adjacent muscles. Intramuscular EMG usually involves the direct insertion of a needle electrode into a particular muscle belly. Intramuscular EMG can be sensitive enough to distinguish between the electrical activity of individual muscle fibers but is not immune to electrical artifact. A related technique, termed nerve conduction study (NCS), is occasionally employed in tandem with EMG in order to quantify the conduction of electrical impulses through nerve tissue (such as a nerve which innervates the muscle being looked at through EMG).
EMG data is perhaps most commonly utilized in the field of exercise prescription in attempting to discern which muscles are “activated” to the greatest extent during the performance of a particular movement. While this kind of information can obviously be beneficial, far too many conclusions are typically drawn in a far too absolute manner. Personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and physical therapists often make the mistake of viewing EMG data for a particular movement, and then assuming that a nearly identical pattern of “muscle activation” will be universally exhibited by anyone performing the same movement. There are many problems with such an assumption and I’ll briefly outline them here. Firstly, it is often thought that skeletal muscles do not produce any electrical activity in a state of rest. This is a false thought in that every cell in the human body produces pulses of electromagnetic activity in a fairly continuous fashion, and many factors are capable of altering a cell’s pattern of vibrational exhibition (such as diet, psychological stress, infections, etc.). Secondly, while electrical impulses are largely conducted along nerve tissue, nerves are housed within the body’s connective tissue matrices (such as fascial matrices and extracellular matrices). The health and architectural shape and positioning of these connective tissues play a significant role in determining the conductance of electrical impulses through nerves to muscles. For example, the pH level, hydration level, presence of toxic material, and physical architecture of extracellular matrices can and do impact the quantity and pattern of neural stimulation which reaches individual muscle fibers. The values for such variables would obviously vary between individuals and affect the results obtained from any kind of EMG measurement. Thirdly, analyzing EMG data from an absolute perspective obviously ignores the gamut of motor programming that has been instilled within the nervous system of the individual being measured. Asking someone to perform a particular movement, collecting EMG measurements, and then assuming that an identical pattern of motor recruitment will be exhibited by anyone else performing the same movement is, quite frankly, moronic. Certainly some kind of resemblance will likely be seen, but the nervous system does not recruit individual muscles in a universally consistent fashion in order for a particular movement to be performed, it recruits an already established motor pattern which it believes to most accurately mirror the intended movement (infantile motor development would obviously be an exception). Accordingly, one’s coordination and array of motor programming would certainly impact the pattern of muscle recruitment during the performance of any movement. Therefore, motor recruitment patterns obviously may not be identical between individuals. Lastly, because it is related to interpreting EMG data, I feel it needs to be noted that muscles do not pull on bones as is typically believed, they pull on the fascial matrix in which they are embedded. This pulling is then translated to the fascial matrix surrounding bone tissue (this is why there are no true levers within the human body). I already alluded to this earlier, but anything that can alter the biochemical or mechanical operation of the fascial matrices (such as acidity, inflammation, dehydration, chronic tension, nutrient deficiencies, toxin presence, microbial infection, electromagnetic pollution, etc.) can absolutely affect the conductance of electrical impulses through the body and thus, the pattern of muscle recruitment employed during the performance of any exercise. Long story short, just because some self-proclaimed “fitness expert” tells you that a particular exercise is the best exercise for developing a particular muscle, that doesn’t mean it’s true or accurate. Today I’d like to quickly cover a few points in regard to barefoot training and minimalist footwear. Easily a couple of lengthy books could be written on this topic, but I just want to highlight a few things for your information. Even though this chat will be pretty one-sided, I won’t be suggesting that it’s absolutely necessary for everyone to start wearing nothing but minimalist shoes from now on. However, there are definitely some concrete benefits that most folks can glean from either wearing some form of a barefoot shod at least periodically or simply walking around barefoot more often.
Firstly, we really can’t escape the fact that the human foot is designed to be bare, and the huge number of sensory nerve endings residing along the soles of the feet are greatly aided by direct contact with the ground in communicating with the brain as to the nature of the environment we’re stepping on. Therefore, inevitably, less direct contact made by the feet will equal less clear and complete sensory data being sent to the brain. Regular shoes that have a thick and/or hard sole can not only alter the location of your base of support and center of pressure, but also the brain’s awareness of these locations, as well as the clarity with which the brain can integrate and respond to the information it receives from the feet and legs [1]. Additionally, the artificial stability provided by most shoes can alter recruitment patterns and the timing (as well as degree) of muscular contraction intended to absorb stress experienced by the feet and legs in addition to ensuring a stable “platform” off of which the rest of the body can contribute to whatever movement is being performed [2]. When the small, stabilizing muscles of the feet and legs become slow and lazy in their reaction time or weak from not needing to be relied upon, joint loading can rise significantly – possibly leading to movement impairments and chronic pain [3]. Next, the use of most shoes typically results in a smaller angle of dorsiflexion (moving the toes up toward the shin) being assumed throughout most of the gait cycle which can force greater mobility to be displayed in joints higher up the chain (such as the knees, hips, or lumbar spine) [4]. This forced mobility can disrupt the body’s ease of movement while generating excessive stress and pain. With regard to exercise performance, the wearing of regular or overly-supportive shoes can increase the intensity of basically any exercise performed (especially jogging or running activity) through interfering with the reflexive contractions that would allow for greater efficiency in movement [5]. Because of the anatomical differences between men and women (mainly the greater Q-angle in women), there can be a slightly different strategy employed to ensure stability of the ankle and foot joints in gait. So, if a woman transitions to a “barefoot” type of shoe, the adaptation or motor-learning process can be a little different than it might be in a man making the same transition. Furthermore, a woman is likely to benefit more (compared to a man) from the increased competence in postural control that can come from being barefoot more often. Along similar lines, it would be best for ladies to decrease the amount of time spent wearing heels as such footwear can contribute to abnormal joint loading, movement dysfunction (often manifesting neck, shoulder, low-back, hip, or knee pain), and a hindrance to lymphatic drainage from the legs. The last thing I want to mention here is that when there is sustained movement dysfunction in some form (from wearing improper footwear, emotional stress, toxicity, nutrient deficiencies, etc.), the structural and energetic support of the abdominal organs can easily drop to a notable extent. Essentially, not only do our vital organs need to have their proper shape and architecture maintained, but they also need to be gently “massaged” by the movement of surrounding tissue in order for them to carry out their duties correctly. When the necessary structural and energetic support of the organs falters, they can become weakened, malnourished, and inflamed. This state of organ ill-health can then be translated to muscle, bone, or skin tissue as pain via what are termed “viscero-somatic reflexes” [6]. Many Foot Zonologists, Reflexologists, and other energy workers encounter this phenomenon pretty commonly, and it would be a great idea to see one of these practitioners for help as musculoskeletal pain that is being referred through a viscero-somatic reflex is unlikely to be fully corrected through a musculoskeletal intervention (such as what a physical therapist or orthopedist might recommend). Most minimalist shoes are ridiculously expensive, but here are a few options if you’d like to take a look at them (the first two are excellent while the second two are decent): http://us.vibram.com/shop/fivefingers/men/training-fitness/el-x/M01.html?dwvar_M01_color=Grey%20%2F%20Black#start=1 http://www.vivobarefoot.com/us/mens/exercise/stealth-ii-mens?colour=Black/Red http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/pd/free-rn-flyknit-womens-running-shoe/pid-10944250/pgid-11514726 http://www.newbalance.com/pd/minimus-20v5-trainer/WX20-V5.html?dwvar_WX20-V5_color=Black_with_White#color=Firefly_with_Purple I hope this was of some use, take care. References:
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AuthorDenton Coleman is an Exercise Physiologist and Medical Researcher. Archives
October 2023
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