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They Broke Women’s Bones for Beauty: Foot Binding in China (Lotus Feet) | Funny Medicine Ep 111
Episode 111
Step into one of history’s most shocking medical and cultural practices: foot binding in China. Also known as Lotus Feet, this brutal tradition started in the 10th century and crushed generations of women under the weight of “beauty standards.”
From our Patreon archives, this exclusive episode of the Funny Medicine Podcast is now available for everyone.
We break down:
• The origins of foot binding and why it became a status symbol
• The painful bone-breaking process and the lifelong health consequences
• The link between foot binding, sexuality, and power in ancient China
• How the practice persisted for centuries, despite bans in the early 20th century
• The psychological and physical toll it took on women
• How Western influence, cultural change, and female autonomy movements led to its decline
This isn’t just medical history, it’s a raw look at how culture and control over women’s bodies shaped generations. If you love shocking medical history, dark health facts, and stories you won’t believe are true, hit subscribe and join us every week for more.
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THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. PLEASE SEEK A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL OR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU ARE SEEKING MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT.
Sources listed in video version of this episode on YouTube.
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Published on 17 hours ago