Despite that we now have access to a plethora of fancy athletic shoes that promise to provide our feet the best support possible while running, some people contend that ditching the soles and laces for direct foot-to-ground contact is the way to go. Learn more about the benefits of running barefoot.
Why run barefoot?
The idea behind running barefoot is that the essential muscles, joints, ligaments and mechanoreceptors of the feet require stimulation for proper functioning. These essentials do not get as much stimulation when they are cushioned by a supportive shoe.
The effects are foot muscle atrophy that can lead to injury and impaired performance. As the reliance of cushioned shoes is prevalent, shoe-wearing runners have also developed a different, hard-heel-hitting gait distinct from people who run barefoot.
Injuries associated with wearing inadequate athletic shoes include bunions, neuromas, plantar fasciitis and stress fractures.
Use caution
Be careful, however, because despite the benefits of running barefoot, doing so also carries its cautions. Injuries associated with running barefoot include frostbite, tendinitis, metatarsal stress factures, lacerations, puncture wounds, abrasions and more.
We cannot prove that running barefoot is necessarily better than running with athletic shoes, but there are groups of runners, cross-trainers and other athletes that have taken it on as part of their regular routines.
How to implement
If you do decide to explore the benefits of running barefoot, you should start out by walking, and then gradually transition to running.
Start with short runs and work your way up to longer runs. Also, start with a minimalist shoe to protect your feet from ground debris.
Do not run barefoot in freezing temperatures, and be prepared for blisters and calluses as you make the transition.
Stop barefoot running immediately at the first sign of pain. Barefoot running will not work well for everybody. Some may only be able to do it on a beach or soft terrain, and others may not be able to do it at all. Use your discretion, and make the decisions that are best for your body.
Contact Advantage Chiropractic Clinic in Auburn today for all of your chiropractic needs. Call us at 334-821-2552.