Barefoot Running

For the past several years, barefoot running has taken off in popularity. Many believers have claimed that barefoot running has cured them of any foot pain or shin splints and allowed them to run farther than what they did before. There have been some pros and cons that have been associated with barefoot running.

There has been some research done showing that when you run barefoot that your foot naturally lands in a different position. However, it has also been shown that it is possible to achieve this with proper training. It was also originally proposed that running barefoot would add less weight reducing the amount of energy required for each step. This theory was disproved by a research group in Colorado who showed you actually use more energy as a result of your body needing to provide a greater amount of shock support.

The largest issue that has been raised with barefoot running is the lack of protection your feet have. Most people when running barefoot choose to run on grass, but there is still a fair amount of people that run on trails and sidewalks. This is opening you up to injury from stepping on rocks or twigs and to infection from any bacteria that is present where you are running. One way that this can be avoided is through using the popular Vibrams. They are advertised as running barefoot although you still have some protection between you and your running surface.

The most important thing to remember when starting a new running routine, whether you are barefoot or not, is that you need to begin slowly. The biggest mistake that many people make is thinking that they can start out at the same mileage they had last time they ran. If it has been more than a couple of weeks though, your body needs to be warmed up slowly so that you do not injure yourself. Common injuries are shin splints and stress fractures. So, start out at a low mileage and your body will be able to work back up to the level you were at before.

If you live in the Methuen, North Andover, Bradford or Lowell Massachusetts area and you are experiencing any foot or ankle pain since starting a new workout regimen, our office staff would be more than happy to help set up an appointment for you. We will get you back out to enjoying your running route as soon as possible.