A year ago, Joseph Michael Kai-Tsu Liu Roqueni started a quest to run barefoot from Montreal to the city of Ushuaia, Argentina, sometimes referred to as “the end of the world.” He’s currently close to Oaxaca, Mexico and still going strong. He claims that he’s received a lot of help from the people he’s met over the course of his journey, and has been provided with free meals, lodging, and more.

 

Along the way Liu Roqueni started wearing thin sandals instead of going completely barefoot to prevent shards of glass from piercing his feet. "Anything that I have to do to make sure that I make it to the end of the world safely, I'll do it," he said.

 

Whether you are running across several continents or just around your neighborhood, barefoot running can be fun and safe as long as you take the right precautions. If you are considering switching to barefoot running, call podiatrist Dr. Karin Johansson, DPM of New York. Dr. Johansson can teach you how to make a smooth transition from normal running to running without shoes and answer any questions you might have.

 

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running.

 

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

 

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