There has been an expanding trend over the last few years toward barefoot running and the use of a “minimalist” shoe. The movement seems to have been largely triggered by the popular book, “Born to Run,” by Chris McDougall. The author developed an interest in the Tarahumara Indians, from Mexico. The Tarahumara have gained some fame for their endurance running, doing so with a simple tire-soled sandal. McDougall has raised to question why orthotics and hi-tech running shoes are necessary, and if they could be the very source of many of the common-day maladies that afflict our population, such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis. If the Tarahumara can run in simple sandals, why can’t we? Aren’t we all “born to run?”
Recent research by a Harvard professor, Daniel Lieberman, has looked into evolutionary biology and has also questioned today’s running style and shoegear. He has, himself, become a barefoot runner, although, I must believe that barefoot running in Boston in January has to be ill advised. His research has shown that barefoot running, in most people, avoids a hard heel strike. The foot lands on the front part of the foot, dramatically reducing the shock absorbed by the body. Based on his research, he has theorized (but admits that his research doesn’t prove this) that barefoot running could decrease the incidence of injury and could strengthen the foot, ankle, and leg. Most shod runners (those who wear shoes) run with a heel to toe gait, as opposed to landing on the forefoot. This running style does increase the shock absorption with each heel strike.
The barefoot running phenomenon has taken issue with the “money-making” running shoe companies and doctors who prescribe custom orthotics, and are pointing fingers at technology as a source of injury, rather than as an aide to the sport of running that optimizes performance and reduces the risk of injury. So, who is right? There is a lot of back and forth on the Internet. There is an amusing (anonymous) person on the Internet with a site, “barefootrunningisbad.com,” combating the growing trend with his/her strong opinions on the subject.
As an active runner and a podiatrist, I have observed these arguments with interest. Where do I stand in all this talk? Somewhere in the middle with things to be gained from both sides? I’ll continue this discussion and put forth my opinion next month. Stay tuned…
For more information, please call University Foot & Ankle Institute in Valencia at 661-260-1180.