Lower back pain? You can thank your desk job — and the Industrial Revolution. Scientists just figured out that our spines actually started hurting more when we stopped moving and started sitting. The wildest part? Neanderthals probably had stronger backs and fewer spine issues than we do today.
Researchers compared ancient spines from before and after the Industrial Revolution and noticed something: spines started curving more once humans traded fields for factories and eventually, offices. Turns out all that sitting, slouching, and bad posture changed how our bodies developed. Before that? Our backs looked more like Neanderthals’. Seriously.
So yeah, we walk like them, but we sit way more — and our backs are mad about it. They didn’t have chairs, screens, or endless emails. We do. Maybe it’s time to rethink how we treat our backs — or start moving like it’s 1799 again.
Szilágyi Mónika
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Your Feet Are Getting Weaker — Thanks to Shoes
PHYSICAL
Think your comfy sneakers are helping your feet? Not exactly. Scientists say modern footwear might actually be making your feet weaker.
Researchers comparing people who go barefoot most of the time with regular shoe-wearers found that the barefoot group had stronger arches, better balance, and more flexible feet. Why? Because shoes do too much of the work for us. Thick soles and tight designs reduce the natural motion and strength of foot muscles.
Before modern shoes, humans walked, ran, and climbed barefoot or in thin sandals — training their feet like built-in gym equipment. Today? Our arches collapse from sitting all day and living in overly cushioned sneakers.
So yeah, your feet might be “comfortable,” but they’re also kind of lazy. Maybe it’s time to give them a workout — go barefoot on grass, try minimalist shoes, or just let your toes move again.
Turns out, the best foot support might be the one nature gave you.