Minimalist Running Shoes Can Possibly Maximize Pain and Injury

Minimalist Running Shoes Can Possibly Maximize Pain and Injury

Running InjuriesAccording to a recent study, quite a few runners reported experiencing higher rates of injury and pain while wearing less structured shoes. Despite this report, advocates of barefoot running continue to promote that “minimalist” running provides a more natural experience one should engage in. The study, which took place over a three month period, allowed participants to switch from traditional shoes to minimalist footwear, which is designed to interfere as minimally as possible.

During the study, participants with minimalist shoes had two to three times as many injuries as compared to runners who stuck with traditional shoes. The injures often experienced were calf muscle strains and Achilles tendonitis.  As a result, traditional footwear seems to be much safer as opposed to minimalist shoes.

By keeping certain techniques in mind, many running injuries can be easily avoided. To learn about how to run safely, consider contacting a podiatrist like Dr. Michael Wynn of Foot Care Associates of Texas, P.A. Dr. Wynn can give you advice and tips about how to exercise properly.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. Runner’s knee usually is treated with strengthening exercises focusing on the quad muscles and sports orthotic. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned. Physical therapy can help you learn the best exercises to heal runner’s knee.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?

- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries

- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Kingwood, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries.


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