Arch Orthotics

Arch Orthotics

In an era of high-priced athletic shoes and broken glass on the streets, running barefoot is a rare spectacle. But most coaches and trainers are turning to their training barefoot runners and recreational athletes now, tired of expensive shoes and lower extremity injuries, are recovering in this new trend. It really is not so new, as people have been running barefoot for hundreds of years. Running barefoot Zola Budd made famous by breaking the world record of 5,000 women meters in 1984, running barefoot. So why are we all paying high dollar for the fabric and rubber to go around our feet? They are the shoes of the problem or the solution? Many will not agree to run barefoot and barefoot debate between supporters, coaches, trainers, runners and podiatrists in full swing.

The proponents

Barefoot advocates argue that the footwear foot (foot encased in a shoe) weakens with time when it contracts. They also claim that the body is unable to feel the ground and adapt appropriately. This inability to adequately adapt the meaning and leads to injury. The body uses more energy when running in a shoe, that when running barefoot. Some brokers say that the scratches on the feet are much less painful than the blisters that usually face after or a half marathon.

Research

The scientific evidence supporting barefoot running is insufficient. A few small studies supported to run barefoot. An internal study in the Journal of Sports Medicine found that there is a really minor impact on the feet while running barefoot in the way the body adapting to the impact. Another study found that the body uses energy around 4% more, while running in shoes compared with barefoot running. In underdeveloped countries with bare feet and shoes, comparisons have shown a higher rate of foot injuries footwear.

Opposition

Opponents are not convincing these studies and argue that these studies were too small or not performed correctly. They note that the fact that the study in developing countries and noted that this tells us very little about the injuries and performance in developed countries.

Those opposing barefoot running it for many reasons. Podiatrists generally are among the most vocal in opposition to run barefoot. The most important reason for opposition is the protection of the foot. Puncture wounds are a major concern for those who are without any kind with protective footwear. Many podiatrists feel that the blisters and injuries are caused by ill-fitting shoes, not all shoes.

Many argue that since our ancestors did their walking and running barefoot, we also must. However, the surfaces we walk today are much more rigid and less tolerant than grass, dirt, and even the stone paths our ancestors walking. Glass and metal fragments are common on the roads and were not a major concern, even a few hundred years ago.

There are different types of feet. Some people have very high arch feet and some people have very low arch feet. Some types of foot can adapt well to run barefoot, but that does not mean all foot types will. The mechanics of the feet are extremely complicated. People who pronate (turn in) and have a flexible flat foot type and generally need more supportive shoes, and sometimes custom made orthotics. Individuals with a very rigid, high arched foot type, put a tremendous amount of pressure on the outside of his foot and may need a shoe or insert to help even out the pressure. Both of these individuals most likely end up with injuries when he tried to run barefoot.

The general rule is that failure to have problems with injuries or performance in the current working place, nothing changes. If on the other hand, the foot fall somewhere between a maximum and a bow low and you have bought all the expensive shoes and insert into the market, but continue to get injured, you might consider trying to run barefoot. If running barefoot is something you would like to try, make sure you gradually work into it. Puncture wounds, waste, cuts and bruises are likely unless the surface you choose wisely. Consultation on the grass or a soft surface. Consider sand on the beach or even go to the track. Gradual onset and slowly.

A word about shoes

Bad appropriate footwear may be the cause of many lower limb injuries. A shoe can put your foot at the wrong angle of the knee and hip, resulting in possible injury. A shoe that is too tight can cause blisters on the toes and problems of toenails. A shoe that is too loose can lead to tendinitis or cause blisters on the heel. A shoe that is too flexible may contribute to the development of fasciitis plantar (pain in the heel and arch). A good shoe does not have to be expensive. When looking for a running shoe, make sure the midsole is supportive. Proof of this taking the area of fingers and the heel area and try to bend the shoe in half. If it bends in the middle of the shoe is too flexible and not support the foot. Make sure enough room in the back of the feet. Check the free heel and make sure the heel counter is sufficiently rigid to maintain the heel in place to avoid blisters. Above all, make sure that footwear is comfortable. Use around the house, on the carpet, before jogging.

Abstract

There are probably some people that could improve performance and reduce its rate of injuries from running barefoot. But before throwing his shoes into the trash and out running with bare feet, consider a shoe more suitable. Running barefoot is not recommended for people with a high arch, low arch, which overpronate or those with diabetes. If you decide to give barefoot running a try, choose tread carefully and be aware of the puncture wounds.

Christine Dobrowolski, DPM is a podiatrist and owner of Northcoast footcare, Inc an online resource for foot care products and foot health information.

To learn more about products for feet, visit Northcoast Footcare.

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