the JIPTS

17-1 ?Barefoot Running vs. Shoe Running: Are There Clinical Implication


Barefoot Running vs. Shoe Running: Are There Clinical Implication?

Yonatan Kaplan,  Joshua Brown 

 

 


Abstract:
Introduction: Despite the technological developments in modern running footwear, up to 79% of runners are injured every year. Barefoot running is not a new concept; nevertheless, relatively few people choose to engage in barefoot (BF) running on a regular basis. While benefits have been proposed, there are also potential risks associated with BF running.


 

Purpose:

To review the up-to-date evidence-based knowledge concerning barefoot vs. minimalistic-footwear running and their implications for the practicing physiotherapist.

 

Methods:

Multiple publications were reviewed, following a search of electronic databases, such as MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane Databases (from

their inception until July 30, 2014) using the search headings:  "barefoot running", "barefoot running biomechanics", "shoe vs. barefoot running".

 

Results:

Thirty-two articles were found to be relevant, the majority of which were reviews or biomechanical and kinematic studies.

 

Conclusions:

There are notable differences in gait and other parameters between barefoot and shoe running. Although there is no evidence that confirms or refutes improved performance and reduced injuries in barefoot runners, many of the claimed disadvantages of barefoot running are not supported by the literature. As a training method, it seems that barefoot running may be acceptable to both coaches and athletes, as it may minimize the risk of injury.

 

Keywords:

barefoot running; biomechanics; minimalistic shoes; running
 

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