Pressure Underfoot
Can you handle it?
Different feet can tolerate different levels of pressure.
Different parts of the feet are also sensitive to different levels of pressure.
Why bother working on building up tolerance?
If you are really sensitive to pressure through the foot, this limits and impacts what you can do out in the world and in daily life.
Fear of pain and any pressure sensitivity stops you from doing the stuff you love and also leads to avoiding movements or positions that might aggravate the pain.
Avoiding movements means we use those parts less and it can start to impact your confidence and trust in your body.
But it IS possible to restore this and gradually improve your tolerance to different pressures, which means you have greater access to more movements and positions!
How do can you build up tolerance to different shapes, textures and pressure underfoot?
By GRADUALLY exposing your feet to different shapes, textures and pliability over time.
A rolled up towel
Soft and forgiving, this is a gentle introduction to something other than flat and level.
The shape encourages movement within the joints and tissue of the feet.
For additional firmness, place a wooden dowel inside the rolled up towel, to introduce more shape.
Introduce a SoleMate
Firm and natural underfoot, the shape of the SoleMate promotes greater adaptation in the joints and tissue of the foot and gives you feedback at the same time.
Place a folded towel or yoga mat over the top for gradual entry into a firmer surface.
Just put one foot at a time on top and test out what pressure feels okay for you.
Use balls for more targeted pressure
Balls come in all shapes, sizes, textures and pliability.
I recommend YogaTuneUp Balls for their tacky surface and pliable nature. They become more flexible over time and allow you to get into those hard to reach sticky spots.
Using a ball helps build tolerance to pressure.
Road test your feet outside
Start barefoot on easy surfaces like grass, sand or tree roots.
Wearing flexible, minimal, naturally shaped footwear allows your feet to feel as close to the ground as possible, whilst maintaining protection from sharp objects.
Flexible footwear also allows your feet to begin to respond accordingly to different surfaces and shapes along the way, plus any change in your position.
Adjust your PACE - when exploring different surfaces and shapes, adjust your pace and your pressure - be mindful - to allow your feet to get used to this new input.
It’s not just about the foot
Incorporating any kind of foot health practice into your life doesn’t just improve the function of your feet, toes, arches and soles. Your balance, ankle, knee and hip function will benefit, as well as your spine, how you walk, how you carry yourself, your posture and your awareness of overstep.
Take a moment to think how far your feet have come with you in life.
How long do you want them to support you going forward?
What can you do right now to step towards giving them some attention?
Your body will thank you!