There’s been a lot of hype around barefoot running, some love it, and some hate it. However, from a podiatric stand point, you have to be sure to protect your feet and prevent injury. If you have decided to run barefoot, or as close to barefoot as possible, be sure to thoroughly explore your options. Thankfully there are many options to both get the effects of running barefoot while staying safe.
One of the biggest concerns podiatrists have about barefoot running is that people will be running on dangerous surfaces. For example, running through the streets of New York without running shoes can cause you to get stuck with glass, rocks, and other debris. In addition, running on a boardwalk can cause dangerous splinters that can lead to infections.
Fortunately, this latest running craze has caused many of the big name shoe companies to offer safe solutions. Nike, Merrell, Saucony and many others now have shoes that act and feel as though you’re running barefoot while offering protection from the surfaces you are running on. You can choose from many styles, colors and other variables.
Although many podiatrists have concerns for barefoot runners, health and safety is number one. Podiatrists have seen many serious injuries resulting from an uneducated barefoot runner. If you have decided to make this lifestyle change, do your research. Understand what you are about to do and how it can affect your body.
