05/05/2026    

PODIATRISTS IN THE NEWS

NY Podiatrist is Advocate of Going Barefoot at Home

 

“I’m a big advocate for going barefoot at home,” Robert Conenello, DPM said. “[The practice] increases intrinsic muscular strength within the feet.” He explained that the primary benefit of walking barefoot is the reinforcement of the muscles in the feet, which tend to weaken “as we age and wear shoes.” These muscles are closely linked to our overall mobility, so their deterioration can contribute to reduced movement as we get older.

 

Dr. Robert Conenello

 

“Many of the pathologies that I see in my practice are due to the inability to engage these muscles for normal movements and metabolic efficiency,” Dr. Conenello added. While Conenello acknowledges some risks — such as stepping on pathogens like fungi in moist environments — he is quick to emphasize that “proper hygiene can help mitigate these risks.” “Wash your feet frequently, dry them thoroughly and moisturize,” he advised.

 

Source: Anna Rahmanan, HuffPost [5/3/26]