Overly Sensitive Feet: Can’t Walk Barefoot?

Sensitivity in feet has become a fairly common problem that a lot of people face today. Even the thought of walking barefoot on uneven surfaces makes a lot of people feel uncomfortable. If you are one of those people, this blog will help you understand how you got here, and what is a simple way to rewire yourself to reconnect and become comfortable with something as natural as being barefoot.

The Cause of Sensitivity

Sensitivity can have two major reasons -

1. A pinched nerve. Sometimes, what would happen is that your nerves, which are responsible to take information from your feet to your spine and then to your brain get pinched in between tight muscles. This causes them to become overly sensitive and even the slightest pressure causes pain and discomfort.

2. Learned Sensitivity. This is what is more likely to happen. Over years, given you haven’t been exposed to surfaces barefoot, your brain becomes overly cautious and sensitive. Even the slightest bump, and your brain assumes it as a threat and causes a nervous reaction.

The Simple Solutions

Sensitivity is not a problem to begin with. The only downside of this reaction is that you may not be living your life to the fullest. Unlearning and working on your bodies and brain to train your nervous system is the singular way of regaining the childlike wonder for the world again.

1. If you belong to the first group with the pinched nerve, the journey can be slightly long but extremely rewarding. Usually the sciatic nerve that gets pinched in between the vertebrae are the reason for sensitivity. A long term solution to this is strengthening the lower back and nerve flossing with various exercises. Once the pressure is off the nerve, your feet will not be as sensitive anymore.

2. If you belong to the second group, you will need to expose yourself to the “danger” of being barefoot in controlled settings like your house or in parks. This allows your nervous system to learn that it is safe being barefoot and slowly regains strength.

3. Using barefoot shoes to slowly allow your feet to feel more ground while staying safe and allowing a slight cushion to keep your nervous system at ease.

 Being barefoot is not just about your feet, but it helps regulate your entire body. A natural posture, grounding, are key for your muscles and nerves to stay healthy long term and for you to enjoy life fully.