Is grounding / earthing for real?

No, its fake. Its mostly made up nonsense.

The idea behind grounding, or earthing, is that by connecting the body to the Earth’s surface, it is possible to absorb negatively charged electrons, which can reduce inflammation, pain, and other health problems. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims that grounding is effective for treating health problems.

Some studies have suggested that grounding may have a beneficial effect on inflammation and immune function, as well as on sleep, heart rate variability, and cortisol levels. However, many of these studies have limitations, such as small sample sizes or lack of controls, and the results are not always consistent.

While there is some evidence to suggest that grounding may have some health benefits, more research is needed to fully understand the potential mechanisms and benefits of this practice. It is also important to note that grounding should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment, and individuals with health problems should always consult with their healthcare providers before trying any new therapies or treatments.

Resources for: Is grounding / earthing for real?

From ScienceBlogs: “Earthing” Is a Bunch of Crap

From Skeptic: Bogus Claims About Grounding Your Feet to Earth Promote Medical Pseudoscience

From Skeptoid: All About Grounding

From PodiaPaedia: Grounding

From RRJ: Grounding: Going barefoot to prevent cardiovascular disease!

From Podiatry Arena: Earthing (grounding) the human body reduces blood viscosity-a major factor in cardiovascular disease

From Skeptic Blog: Are You a Grounded Person?

From Its a Foot: ‘Grounding’ or ‘Earthing’ is still bollocks

Please note:

If you have any actual published peer reviewed science that grounding or earthing does actually work and that evidence stacks up to scrutiny, please please contact us and it will be added above.

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Is overpronation bad?*

Yes, it is. Despite the rhetoric and propaganda, it is a problem for runners but not a big problem.

Overpronation is a foot condition where the foot rolls inward excessively while walking or running, leading to an excessive flattening of the arch. Pronation is a natural movement of the foot that occurs when the foot strikes the ground and the arch flattens to absorb shock. However, excessive pronation can put stress on the foot and lower leg, and may cause pain or injury over time.

Overpronation can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic factors, certain medical conditions, or wearing shoes that don’t provide enough support or stability. People who have flat feet or low arches may also be more prone to overpronation.

Symptoms of overpronation may include foot or ankle pain, knee pain, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis, which is a painful condition that affects the heel and arch of the foot.

Treatment for overpronation may include wearing shoes with good arch support and stability, using orthotic inserts to provide additional support, and performing exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and lower leg. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural problems in the foot. A podiatrist or other healthcare provider can provide advice and treatment options for overpronation.

Resources on is overpronation bad?

From Run Research Junkie: http://www.runresearchjunkie.com/the-nonsensical-understanding-of-overpronation/

From Its a Foot Captain: https://www.itsafootcaptain.com/pronation-mythology/

From PodiatryCPD: https://podiatrycpd.com.au/2020/06/15/whats-the-deal-with-overpronation/

From More to Life than Running: http://www.moretolifethanrunning.com/2020/08/is-overpronation-a-death-sentence-for-runners/

*This topic is not exactly mainstream skepticism, but sorry about that. I am a runner and this is an issue in the running and sports medicine communities.

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  • West, Mick (Author)
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  • 304 Pages - 09/18/2018 (Publication Date) - Skyhorse Publishing (Publisher)
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The Death of Expertise: The Campaign against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
  • Nichols, Tom (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 280 Pages - 10/01/2018 (Publication Date) - Oxford University Press (Publisher)
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The Skeptic's Guide to the Universe
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  • English (Publication Language)
  • 528 Pages - 12/03/2019 (Publication Date) - Grand Central Publishing (Publisher)
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  • Deer, Brian (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 408 Pages - 09/29/2020 (Publication Date) - Johns Hopkins University Press (Publisher)

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Are COVID toes a real thing?

In April 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic reports began to surface of skin lesions (chilblains) appearing on the toes with a high frequency in those infected with the novel coronavirus causing COVID-19. Are they a real thing?

COVID toes is a term used to describe a skin condition that has been observed in some people who have been infected with COVID-19. It is characterized by the appearance of red or purple lesions on the toes, which may be itchy or painful. The lesions may also be accompanied by swelling or a burning sensation.

The exact cause of COVID toes is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an inflammatory response triggered by the virus. Some experts believe that COVID toes may be a sign of a milder or asymptomatic infection, while others suggest that it may be a late-stage manifestation of the disease.

COVID toes have been observed in people of all ages, including children and young adults, and are more commonly seen in women than men. Most cases of COVID toes are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks, but in some cases, they may be more severe and require medical attention.

It is important to note that COVID toes are just one of the many possible symptoms of COVID-19, and not all people who have been infected with the virus will experience this condition. Other symptoms of COVID-19 may include fever, cough, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

Resources on COVID toes:

This thread on the forum, Podiatry Arena, lists and links to all the differing opinions and research on COVID toes:
https://podiatryarena.com/index.php?threads/chilblains-and-covid-19-covid-toes.112258/

This chat from PodChatLive discussed the current issues around the concept and if it was a real thing:
http://podchatlive.com/episode-81-with-nadia-dembsky-chilblains-and-covid-toes/

Sale
Escaping the Rabbit Hole: How to Debunk Conspiracy Theories Using Facts, Logic, and Respect
  • Hardcover Book
  • West, Mick (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 304 Pages - 09/18/2018 (Publication Date) - Skyhorse Publishing (Publisher)
Sale
The Skeptic's Guide to the Universe
  • Novella, Steven (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 528 Pages - 12/03/2019 (Publication Date) - Grand Central Publishing (Publisher)
Sale
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
  • Nichols, Tom (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 280 Pages - 10/01/2018 (Publication Date) - Oxford University Press (Publisher)
Sale
The Doctor Who Fooled the World: Science, Deception, and the War on Vaccines
  • Hardcover Book
  • Deer, Brian (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 408 Pages - 09/29/2020 (Publication Date) - Johns Hopkins University Press (Publisher)

I get commissions for purchases made through links on this website. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.