Scanning these recommendations, the plurality -- perhaps even the majority -- are ergonomic. You would think everyone is constantly in pain: keyboards, desks, monitors, chairs, shoes, that relieve pain.
Even the air filters, robot vacuums, and noise reduction devices reduce some kind of pain.
The only non-pain recommendation that comes close is coffee and the apple M1.
One strange thing is the contrary recommendations: there are recommendations for barefoot shoes as well as arch support slippers. Not sure if this means that different feet need different things, or if one side of the debate was marketed to.
I recently took up running, unfortunately all I have for footwear is an old pair of Vans, just about the worst thing to run in. All the disadvantages of both minimalist and maximalist shoes, wrapped up in a flat, hard sole with holes in both heels.
After some online research, I have a pair of minimalist (barefoot) running sandals coming in the mail. I'll have to let you know if it was worth it or if I was just punked by the marketers ;)
From what I remember reading the difference in contusions is visible between barefoot running and proper shoes. I don't remember which had which, but it was like one prevents Achilles tendon from injury and the other from ankle injury. It would depend on the person what would be better. As they say - choose your poison.
Even the air filters, robot vacuums, and noise reduction devices reduce some kind of pain.
The only non-pain recommendation that comes close is coffee and the apple M1.
One strange thing is the contrary recommendations: there are recommendations for barefoot shoes as well as arch support slippers. Not sure if this means that different feet need different things, or if one side of the debate was marketed to.