The Shoe Swap That Fixed My Back

SUBSCRIBE for weekly episodes + more: https://bit.ly/3CvQCwM

Back, knee, or foot pain? Your shoes might be to blame. In this episode, I’m sharing how switching from traditional “normal” shoes to barefoot and transitional shoes completely changed my back pain—and how you can start making the switch, too.

I’ll walk you through what makes barefoot shoes different, how heel drop and shoe shape affect your posture, and why starting with transitional shoes can help you avoid injury. I’m also sharing my favorite brands and budget-friendly picks (some under $30!) for both adults and kids.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Strong feet = a strong foundation for your entire body
You don’t have to go all-in on barefoot shoes right away—start with transitional options
Many great shoes now cost $20–$30 instead of $120+
A wide toe box and zero-drop sole make a world of difference
Strengthening your feet can improve posture, agility, and reduce pain

Christa’s favorite barefoot & transitional shoe brands:
Budget-friendly:
Whitin (Amazon) – under $40, multiple styles
ZYEN (Amazon) – slip-on sneaker, ~$20
JBU water shoes – great for rivers, summer wear

Everyday & transitional:
Merrell Trail Glove (more cushion, good starter)
Merrell Vapor Glove (thinner sole, more barefoot feel)
Flux – attractive everyday styles, thick sole (good for concrete)
Storehouse Flats – ballet flats for dressier wear

Long-lasting investment brands:
Groundies (Christa’s personal favorite overall)
Lems – casual & mountaineering looks
Xero – sandals, boots, casual shoes
Wildlings – ultra-flexible, thin sole (best for mild conditions)

Kids & wide feet:
Merrell Trail Glove kids
Whittens boots & tennis shoes
Xero Chelsea boots (great for flat feet)

Other brands to consider:
VivoBarefoot – very popular for flat feet
Bed Stu sandals – zero-drop and cute but slippery on stone

❓Questions for Christa? Submit it here: https://www.christabiegler.com/questions
_____
SPONSOR:
Thanks to Jigsaw Health for sponsoring this episode! Looking for a clean, tasty way to stay hydrated this summer? Their Electrolyte Supreme is a go-to for energy, minerals, and daily hydration support. Use code LESSSTRESSED10 at https://www.jigsawhealth.com/ for 10% off—unlimited use!
_____
ABOUT CHRISTA BIEGLER, RD, LN, CLT PRACTIONER & PODCAST HOST
Christa Biegler has been a registered dietitian for over 10 years, author of The Eczema Relief Diet & Cookbook, host of top-rated Less Stressed Life podcast and was awarded Dietitian of the Year for South Dakota in 2020.

She worked in a variety of clinical settings, school nutrition, and behind the scenes for a food company and fitness celebrity before starting her private practice focusing on food sensitivities and eczema for adults and pediatrics, which quickly expanded to all aspects of gut health.
_____
Hang Out + Learn With Me...
Instagram • https://www.instagram.com/anti.inflammatory.nutritionist/
Blog • https://www.christabiegler.com/blog
Shop • https://www.christabiegler.com/shop

Listen to The Less Stressed Life podcast here:
Direct link • https://www.christabiegler.com/podcast
iTunes • https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/less-stressed-life-helping-you-heal-yourself/id1259689715
Google Play• https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cDovL2xlc3NzdHJlc3NlZGxpZmUubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M
Spotify •
https://open.spotify.com/show/4cVkVGhrAyPO6mHeVWVH90?si=df091aeec1b9427d
Stitcher • https://www.stitcher.com/show/the-less-stressed-life
Podchaser • https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/less-stressed-life-helping-you-538663?
Amazon Music •
https://www.amazon.com/music/player/podcasts/3c614150-97b1-4e3f-86ac-4ae8094d4211/less-stressed-life-helping-you-heal-yourself

DISCLAIMER: Christa Biegler is a clinical nutritionist who offers health, wellness, and nutritional information for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It also does not create a client-practitioner relationship between yourself + Christa. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should consult with a physician or other healthcare professional first before making any changes. Do not disregard, avoid, or delay obtaining medical or health related advice because of something you may have seen in these videos.

NOTE: This description may contain affiliate links that allow you to easily find the items discussed in this video that support my channel at no cost to you. While this channel may earn minimal sums when you use the links, you (the viewer) are in NO WAY obligated to use these links. Either way, I appreciate you for your support!
_____
#barefootshoes
#backpainrelief
#foothealth