28 Apr Shoes 👟 or No Shoes 🙅♂️ Running is the fourth most popular activity by participation and runners 🏃♀️ tend to be at high risk of injuries. In recent years, barefoot running has been proposed as being the answer to reducing running injuries as it allows the foot to work in a way that nature intended it to. However, before you decide to throw away your shoes 👟 and start barefoot running it is important to consider the pros and cons of barefoot running.
Studies 🏃♀️ reveals that barefoot runners tend to run with the mid or ball of the foot hitting the ground first compared to shoe runners who land on their heel first in a heel – toe fashion. Using a mid or forefoot strike pattern reduces the impact forces of when your foot hits the ground. 🦵However, it also results in a reduced step length and therefore an increase in the number and frequency of steps per given distance. Meaning that the overall effect might be the same between having shoes or no shoes.🤔
However, some barefoot runners still use a heel strike running pattern. Barefoot foot running and using a heel strike pattern actually produces a 7 fold increase in impact forces, 😳 thereby placing these runners at much greater risk of injury. While wearing shoes reduces this impact force by about 10% making it more tolerable. 😊
So while barefoot running may appear to reduce common running injuries in the knees and hips, barefoot runners are at higher risk of ankle and foot injuries apart from the more obvious damage to soles of the feet from running on sharp, jagged, hot or even cold surfaces. 😣
If you are considering 🤔trying barefoot running, it is important to take into consideration, your personal health stats, running pattern, existing injuries and any muscle tightness or weakness in the hips, knees, ankles and foot. 🏃♀️
At My Favourite Physio, our Expert Physiotherapists are able to assess and treat any existing running injuries you have and advice you on the best strategies for your situation when training for running. 💪Ring us on (02) 9790 4233 or DM us @myfavouritephysio for a Free 15minute Phone Consult today. 😊