Podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal on Foot Nerves, Toe Spacers, and Why Shoes Affect Your Whole Body

In January, The Strong New York Podcast hit the road at the LA Fit Expo, where Kenny connected with Dr. Emily Splichal — functional podiatrist, human movement specialist, and founder of Naboso, a company creating sensory-based tools designed to stimulate the nerves in the feet and enhance movement and performance. Together, they unpack why foot health is foundational to strength, stability, and long-term resilience.

Dr. Splichal breaks down the shift from minimal to maximal footwear, addresses lingering misconceptions from the barefoot running era, and explains why shoe selection should be categorical based on the specific activity. She challenges the obsession with hitting 10,000 steps, advocating instead for higher-quality walking and the integration of quick, reactive movements to support fall prevention and longevity. The conversation also explores the body’s interconnected “stacking domes” — detailing how the feet link to the pelvic floor, diaphragm, and even the tongue through fascia — and dives into pelvic floor contraction versus relaxation in pregnancy and Pilates, as well as why women benefit from lifting heavier than they often think.

The episode closes with a live foot assessment and practical takeaways, including toe spacers and simple daily recovery strategies you can start immediately. If your goal is to move better, build real strength, and create a body that lasts, this conversation truly starts from the ground up.

00:00 Live at LA Fit Expo

00:40 Meet Dr Emily and No Boso

01:25 The Science of Texture

02:39 Minimal vs Maximal Shoes

05:45 Running Boom and Hybrid Shoes

06:45 Choosing the Right Footwear

09:03 Barefoot Training for Pain

11:38 Better Steps Not More

12:37 Quick Movement for Longevity

14:18 Foot to Pelvic Floor Connection

16:03 Pregnancy and Pelvic Floor Timing

17:35 Pilates Balance and Heavy Lifting

20:26 Training Routine Breakdown

21:25 Purposeful Movement Mindset

22:08 Balance Training Debates

22:49 Foot Recovery and Toe Control

24:17 Barefoot Training Benefits

25:04 Where to Find Dr Emily

25:31 Live Foot Assessment

28:48 Neutral Foot and Rigid Lever

30:20 Feet Pelvic Floor and Glutes

31:50 Foot Posture Exercises

32:41 Final Wrap and Links