Have you ever heard of barefoot shoes? Despite the name, it's not about going barefoot, but rather a growing trend in the footwear world. These shoes are designed to give the feeling of walking barefoot and allow feet to move more naturally. And surprisingly, they could have a number of joint health benefits.
What is barefoot running?
Barefoot running, or “barefooting” in English, refers to walking without shoes or with minimalist shoes. The basic idea is to return to a more natural way of walking, just as our ancestors did before the invention of modern shoes.
How do barefoot shoes work?
Barefoot shoes are designed to provide minimal protection and mimic the feeling of walking barefoot as much as possible. They often have thin, flexible soles and lightweight uppers. Unlike traditional shoes, they do not have a raised heel and provide little or no arch support, allowing the foot to move freely and adapt to the terrain.
Benefits for the joints
1. Better weight distribution : Without the raised heel of traditional shoes, the body weight is distributed more evenly across the entire foot, reducing pressure on the joints.
2. Increased proprioception: Walking in barefoot shoes improves the sense of the ground beneath the feet, which increases proprioception, the ability to perceive the position and movement of the body in space. This can lead to better posture and less strain on your joints.
3. Strengthen foot muscles: Wearing minimalist shoes can help strengthen foot muscles, providing natural support and reducing reliance on shoes with arch support.
4. Preventing Inflammation: Better foot mechanics can help prevent inflammation and joint problems such as arthritis.
Considerations
Although there are many potential benefits to wearing barefoot shoes, a gradual transition is important. If you're used to wearing traditional shoes with a lot of support, your body will need time to adjust. Start slowly and increase the time and distance you wear barefoot shoes each week.
Finally, barefoot shoes offer an interesting solution for those looking for a natural way to relieve joint problems. As with any health change, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor or physical therapist before making any major lifestyle changes.
