Feet and The Benefits of Orthotics for Pain and Performance | Dr. Robert Weil | Ep. 50

Ever had a “roof-walk” moment—where one small shift in footing makes your whole body feel it? Dr. Kevin Wall flips the usual conversation and goes bottom-to-top, unpacking why the feet aren’t just “feet”… they’re the foundation that can influence knees, hips, back, posture, and performance. Joining him is Dr. Robert Weil (“Dr. Bob”), a sports podiatrist and longtime host of The Sports Doctor, who shares decades of real-world insight, from youth athletes to weekend warriors to older adults, on what proper orthotics are designed to do, why “support” isn’t the best word, and how stability + efficiency can change everything. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why foot mechanics can drive recurring knee, hip, and back problems, even when your feet don’t hurt The difference between over-the-counter inserts vs custom prescription orthotics “Hard vs soft” isn’t the real question: rigid vs flexible (and why flexible materials often win) The role of pronation/supination: when it’s normal vs when it becomes a problem Two simple things you can start tomorrow: foot/ankle strengthening + balance training When barefoot running/minimal shoes can help… and when they can backfire Why shoes matter by sport (running vs court sports) and how often to replace them Guest Bio: Dr. Robert Weil (aka “Dr. Bob”) is a sports podiatrist with decades of experience helping patients improve foot mechanics, posture, comfort, and performance through custom orthotics and functional training. He is the host of The Sports Doctor radio show, which has been on the air for more than four decades, featuring experts from across the sports medicine world. Over the years, Dr. Weil has worked with elite and professional athletes (including tennis, NFL, and Olympic-level competitors) and is known for making complex biomechanics practical for everyday people—whether you’re a serious athlete, a busy parent, or simply trying to move well for life. Resources: The Sports Doctor radio show: https://thesportsdoctorradio.com/ Connect with Dr. Wall: Website: https://www.drkevinwall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unpluggedhealthcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.kevinwall/ Twitter: ​​https://x.com/drkevinwall YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.KevinWall Disclaimer: The content provided in this health podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately. Reliance on any information provided in this podcast is solely at your own risk. The creators and hosts of this podcast are not responsible for any actions or decisions you may take based on the information presented.