Final answer:
Padding and support for the feet help eliminate pressure on joints and nerves by acting as shock absorbers and distributing body weight evenly. This is especially important during activities like running, where the feet absorb forces up to 2.5 times body weight.
Step-by-step explanation:
Adequate padding and support for the feet eliminate pressure on joints and nerves by providing cushioning and support to the foot's structure. When jogging on soft ground or wearing padded shoes, the stress and impact on the feet and legs are reduced. This is crucial because during running, the force applied to each foot can be up to 2.5 times your body weight. The foot's arches play a significant role in absorbing this shock, flattening under pressure to take in energy, and then rebounding to assist in propelling the movement. Additionally, activities like swimming and the use of mobility aids can help decrease the stress on joints. Good posture also contributes to reducing strain on the body by ensuring proper alignment and weight distribution.
Moreover, the articular cartilage, a thin layer that reduces friction and acts as a shock absorber, along with supportive devices such as braces and orthotic footwear, can prevent conditions such as pes planus ("flat foot"), which is the result of prolonged stretching and potential collapse of the supporting ligaments of the longitudinal arches of the foot.