In this in-depth solo episode, Dr. Emily Splichal tackles one of the most misunderstood topics in foot health: flat feet.

Rather than treating flat feet as a single condition, Dr. Emily explains why the term itself is misleading and why understanding pronation, stability, timing, and foot type is essential for preventing pain and improving long-term movement health. You'll learn how foot mechanics influence everything from knee alignment and pelvic position to low back pain, fatigue, and injury risk.

This episode offers a clear, practical framework for identifying flexible vs. rigid flat feet, distinguishing muscle weakness from ligament laxity, and choosing the right combination of strengthening, support, and footwear for both adults and children.

• Why not all flat feet are the same and why classification matters
• How foot motion directly affects knees, hips, pelvis, spine, and posture
• When foot exercises can help (and when they can't change arch shape)
• How to approach flat feet in children without over-correcting too early

• Website & Virtual Consultations: https://thefunctionalfootdoc.com
• Instagram: @thefunctionalfootdoc
• Powerstep Arch Supports (Adults & Kids): https://powerstep.com
• NOBOSO Sensory Insoles: https://noboso.com
• Foot Wedges & Felt Pads: https://hapad.com

In this solo episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal unpacks one of the most misunderstood foot conditions — bunions — and reframes the conversation around what truly matters: big toe mobility and how we walk.

Rather than focusing only on the bunion "bump," Dr. Emily explains why the big toe is a critical driver of propulsion, glute activation, joint health, and longevity. You'll learn how limited big toe motion quietly changes your gait, drains energy, accelerates joint wear, and contributes to issues far beyond the foot — from knee pain to low back pain and instability throughout the body.

This episode separates myth from truth, explains what bunions actually are (and aren't), and offers clear guidance on prevention, conservative care, and when surgery may truly be the right choice all through the lens of long-term movement health.

• How limited big toe motion shortens stride length and increases joint wear
• The truth about bunion myths: genetics, shoes, and "reversing" bunions
• How to slow or pause bunion progression without surgery
• When bunion surgery may be protective — and when waiting too long limits your options
• Why walking mechanics are one of the strongest predictors of movement longevity

Resources & Links

• Website & Virtual Consultations: https://thefunctionalfootdoc.com
• Instagram: @thefunctionalfootdoc
• NOBOSO Toe Spacers & Sensory Tools: https://noboso.com
• Bunion Programs & Foot Strength Resources: https://dremilysplichal.com

In this episode of Root to Rise, Dr. Emily Splichal is joined by Danielle Kalmbach, wellness entrepreneur and founder of JOLT PEMF Lab, a modern recovery and performance studio specializing in Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy.

Danielle's work sits at the intersection of nervous system regulation, recovery science, and performance culture. Through JOLT, she is redefining PEMF not as a passive modality, but as an intentional tool for restoring energy, improving resilience, and supporting whole-body regulation. Together, Emily and Danielle explore how PEMF influences circulation, inflammation, cellular energy, and the nervous system — and why it is becoming a cornerstone in both recovery and high-performance lifestyles.

Key Topics:

• Why Danielle created a more intentional, human-centered PEMF experience.
• How PEMF supports cellular energy and nervous system regulation.
• Who benefits most from PEMF, from athletes to stressed professionals.
• How PEMF fits into a modern performance and recovery stack.
• Where PEMF and recovery technology are headed next.

About Jaime Passaglia:

Danielle Kalmbach is a wellness entrepreneur and founder of JOLT PEMF Lab, a modern recovery studio dedicated to optimizing nervous system health, energy, and human performance through Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy.

With a human-centered approach to technology-driven wellness, Danielle works with athletes and high-performing individuals seeking smarter recovery, sustainable vitality, and deeper regulation — one pulse at a time.

• Website: joltpemflab.com
• Instagram: @joltpemflab