Movement Matters for walking longevity

In this episode of Root to Rise podcast, Dr. Emily Splichal unpacks one of the most misunderstood foot conditions — bunions — and reframes the conversation around what truly matters: big toe mobility and how we walk.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yK2BCY1JUeQ

This episode separates myth from truth, explains what bunions actually are (and aren’t), and offers clear guidance on prevention, conservative care, and when surgery may truly be the right choice — all through the lens of long-term movement health.

Key Takeaways:

-How limited big toe motion shortens stride length and increases joint wear

-The truth about bunion myths: genetics, shoes, and “reversing” bunions

-How to slow or pause bunion progression without surgery

-When bunion surgery may be protective — and when waiting too long limits your options ---Why walking mechanics are one of the strongest predictors of movement longevity.

Movement Matters for your toes

Toe Spacers: A Simple Step for Healthier Feet

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgvsnasJ0aE

This video reviews the mechanics behind toe splay, and how spacers can support improved alignment and stability.

Movement Matters for your feet.A reminder

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDjZDig9QfI

If you want better balance, greater strength, and improved nervous system regulation, you have to start at the foot. Not just structurally, but neurologically.

The bottom of your foot is one of the most densely innervated areas in the body. It constantly sends information to your brain about pressure, load, and stability. Every step you take provides feedback. That feedback helps your brain decide how much muscle tone to use, how stable you are, and whether it’s safe to relax.

When that input is dampened, for example by thick shoes or socks, your nervous system compensates. Over time, those compensations can change how you move and how your body organizes itself.