Could Foot strength be the true key to Longevity? Courtney Conley

Your feet hit the ground thousands of times a day—yet most people treat them like fashion accessories instead of foundations. Toe spacers. Barefoot shoes. Miracle insoles. Bunion fixes. Social media has turned foot health into a trend—but pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel issues keep rising. In this episode, we cut through the noise with Dr. Courtney Conley, one of the most trusted voices in foot health and human movement. We break down what’s actually supported by biomechanics and evidence—and what’s just well-marketed hope. This is a practical, no-nonsense conversation for people who are active, successful, and quietly frustrated that their feet keep holding them back. In this episode, we cover: How to spot foot health red flags that signal marketing—not real biomechanics Toe spacers: what they help, what they don’t, and how to use them safely Barefoot and minimalist shoes—who they help, who they hurt, and how to transition without injury Bunions: what can improve pain and function conservatively—and what usually won’t reverse Orthotics: when they’re smart, when they’re a distraction, and how to pair them with real foot strength Plantar fasciitis and heel pain: the highest-ROI strategies people overlook Heel spurs explained—and whether injections actually make sense Why walking is a longevity skill, and the 3 foot metrics that matter most for life If foot pain has been limiting your workouts, your walking, or your confidence in movement, this episode will change how you think about your feet—and your shoes. About the Guest Dr. Courtney Conley is a foot and ankle specialist, educator, and co-founder of Gait Happens, a globally recognized foot health education platform. She specializes in biomechanics, gait analysis, injury prevention, and helping people build stronger, more resilient feet through evidence-based strategies. Dr. Conley is widely known for translating complex foot science into practical tools athletes, clinicians, and everyday people can actually use. Learn more about Dr. Courtney Conley and her work: https://gaithappens.com We are two sports chiropractors, seeking knowledge from some of the best resources in the world of health. From our perspective, health is more than just “Crackin Backs” but a deep dive into physical, mental, and nutritional well-being philosophies. Join us as we talk to some of the greatest minds and discover some of the most incredible gems you can use to maintain a higher level of health. Crackin Backs Podcast