Barefoot Running? A Risky Stride Toward Exercise
Many runners experience foot pain, leading some to explore barefoot running as an alternative. While the barefoot running movement and those who swear by the practice tout some reported benefits, it could be dangerous for many reasons.
Before you take your next step, the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland have detailed some potential downsides to running without footwear. Read on to learn more about this trend and why you might want to sidestep it altogether.
The Costs of Barefoot Running
Bare feet are more vulnerable to impact, less protected from injury, and not ideal for those with irregular foot structure or biomechanics.
- Impact on unconditioned Feet: Due to the lack of foot support, there may be an increase in risk for injuries like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and metatarsal stress fractures. This is especially true for those who don’t gradually acclimate to barefoot running.
- Lack of protection: Shoes provide a crucial layer of protection from the elements. Running barefoot exposes your feet to cuts, scrapes, blisters, hot pavement, and punctures from debris like glass, rocks, and thorns.
- Not for everyone: Those with flat or misaligned feet could potentially make barefoot running painful.
- Increases risk of infection: Individuals who are prone to skin or foot infections should not run barefoot due to increased risk.
Alternatives to Barefoot Running
If you’re still set on trying this popular form of cardio, consider:
- A Gradual Increase: Slowly increase distance and terrain difficulty as your feet adapt.
- Starting Short: Begin with short distances on soft surfaces like grass.
- Minimalist Shoes: A happy medium for some runners is the minimalist shoe. These shoes offer a thin sole that provides a layer of protection from the elements while still allowing for a “natural” running experience.
Practicing at Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland in Solon, OH, Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, Dr. Jim Swienconek, Dr. Rachel Robinson, and Dr. Courtney Yoder are here to recommend the best running practice for your personal lifestyle. Call us at (440) 903-1041 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We treat patients in Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties, proudly serving Solon, Aurora, Bedford, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, Macedonia, and Twinsburg, too.
