As astronauts stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) for 6 months await their return to Earth, critical health issues like ‘baby foot’ are awaiting them upon their return. American astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded on the ISS since June due to technical issues with Boeing spacecraft. After a long wait, the duo and two other astronauts opened the hatch of the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule that would take them back to Earth. If all goes according to plan, the capsule carrying the astronauts will splash down off the Gulf Coast of Florida at midnight Turkish time following a 17-hour journey. However, after floating in space for an extended period, Suni and Butch may look and feel somewhat different upon their return to Earth. One such condition that can be quite bothersome is called ‘baby foot.’

BABY FOOT SYNDROME

Walking on Earth subjects the soles of human feet to constant pressure and friction. This causes the foot skin to thicken over time, protecting the feet from abrasions, discomfort, and pain. However, in space where there is no gravity, astronauts who cannot walk experience minimal pressure on the soles of their feet. “SKIN PEELS SLOWLY”

Former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao, in an interview with NewsNation Prime, said, “Within six months to a year, the thick and calloused skin on your feet will slowly peel off.” Chiao mentioned that after the peeling of the tough skin, the feet usually remain soft and sensitive, saying, “Upon return to Earth, it feels like you have baby feet.” The feet may take weeks or even months to regain toughness and durability. Walking during this period can be uncomfortable and even painful. Chiao also stated, “Due to the disorientation of your balance, you may feel somewhat sick with nausea. In my opinion, it feels like having the flu, and it takes a few weeks to feel normal.” Another former NASA astronaut Terry Virts described his feeling upon touching down on Earth as, “I felt like I was experiencing a really severe case of dizziness” and mentioned struggling to regain his balance. WHAT OTHER SIDE EFFECTS DO ASTRONAUTS ENCOUNTER?

The human body developed to live in a gravity environment, so extended exposure to a gravity-free environment causes problems with physical functions like the sense of balance, muscle mass, and cell production. Therefore, when astronauts return to Earth, they may experience severe dizziness due to readjusting to gravity. Spending a long time in a zero-gravity environment prevents the use of muscles typically employed in daily life on Earth. For instance, walking does not require the use of leg muscles or standing does not utilize the neck and back muscles. Consequently, the human body begins to break down unused muscles over time in a process called muscle atrophy.

HEART SHRINKING

Furthermore, the hearts of astronauts who spend extended periods in a gravity-free environment may shrink slightly because the body no longer needs to expend as much effort to pump blood. Additionally, the movement of fluid in astronauts’ bodies in weightlessness differs, which can exert pressure on the optic nerve and distort vision. In addition, prolonged isolation and confinement in a small space can lead to psychological effects, generating anxiety and depression.

HOW DO ASTRONAUTS RECOVER?

Upon returning to Earth, astronauts go through physical and psychological evaluations. This is followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation process that includes strengthening exercises, cardiovascular workouts, and psychological support. Most astronauts fully recover over time. However, some may face long-term effects.