Nike versus Darwin: are we better off running barefoot? A literature review.
Item
- Title
- Nike versus Darwin: are we better off running barefoot? A literature review.
- Author(s)
- McGrandle, S
- Abstract
- In the light of recent biomechanical research (Lieberman, 2010) the concept of barefoot running has been a popular topic of discussion. However, its benefits towards a reduction in injury occurrence have been insufficiently analysed, as a result its place in an exercise conscious society is unclear to date. In the following review, key biomechanical mechanisms behind barefoot running will be discussed and comparatives will be drawn between it and those of shod running. Research highlighting benefits of barefoot running will be assessed, in addition to a critique of reviews and articles relating barefoot technology and sports apparel. Method The following review of literature will consist of references from peer reviewed research articles that have been published within the last twenty years. Review papers will also be utilised to construct opinion. A number of search engines were used including Science direct: Pubmed: Sports discuss: Swetswise: Google scholar. Key words used were - barefoot running: shod running: foot biomechanics: bipedal locomotion: evolutionary foot patterns: barefoot shoes: running shoes: gait patterns: common running injuries, applied using oolean logic. Books published on biomechanics, osteopathic concepts and sports injury were also acquired for reference. Footwear reviews and research were also retrieved. Results Evidence is suggestive that elements of the barefoot technique may indeed be more efficient on certain levels, decreasing injury rate. However when looking at barefoot technology suggestions of beneficial effects are commonly put across without valid evidential support. There is no evidential, direct link between sports shoe use and a reduction in injury. Discussion Research has shown that foot strike patterns of the barefoot technique are less forceful thus more efficient and that during locomotion the foot works with a greater mechanical advantage barefoot than it does with the use of sports footwear. However it is not comprehensible that barefoot running can be sensibly and safely adapted to modern society. Furthermore investigative work has shown that barefoot techniques can not be applied to all levels of running and to avoid injury must be carefully and minimally included in training programmes. Conclusion More research is needed to specify the direct link between pure barefoot running and less risk of injury, whether shod running causes an increase in injury and whether barefoot technology is viable when it is in fact expressing\more likeness to a shod technique. Until applicable evidence is drawn from research manual therapists should not recommend a change to a barefoot running technique to avoid injury but can suggest strengthening exercises of intrinsic musculature that is commonly weak in shod gait patterns.
- presented at
- European School of Osteopathy
- Date Accepted
- 2011
- Date Submitted
- 22.1.2013 16:23:35
- Type
- osteo_thesis
- Language
- English
- Submitted by:
- 62
- Pub-Identifier
- 15285
- Inst-Identifier
- 1229
- Keywords
- Running; Barefoot running; Shoes; Foot.
- Recommended
- 0
- Item sets
- Thesis
McGrandle, S, “Nike versus Darwin: are we better off running barefoot? A literature review.”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed May 2, 2024, https://www.osteopathicresearch.com/s/orw/item/780