Plantar fasciitis vs minimalist sneakers

 

The popular saying “soft water on hard rock will make a hole” says a lot about our habits, especially the most harmful ones. Anything in excess increases the risk of harming our health and causing long-term consequences.

Especially in the case of the feet, wearing artificial shoes since childhood completely changes the condition of the feet. As a result, injuries and inflammations become inevitable.

In practice, the foot is naturally strong. However, sneakers squeeze the toes, the shallow base affects the body's balance, as does the drop of the shoes. All of this increases the risks for those who wear the most popular shoes.

Among the consequences is plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory or degenerative process that impacts the plantar fascia — or plantar aponeurosis. This inflammation causes pain in the “top” of the sole of the foot, closest to the heel.

This membrane is surrounded by fibrous connective tissue. Its degeneration is related to its low elasticity. Therefore, since it is covered by the muscles of the sole of the foot, stretching it can accelerate the inflammatory and degenerative process.

To better understand, it is worth highlighting the main function of the plantar fascia: to maintain the firmness of the foot, especially the curvature. By having a strong arch, the body is able to cushion and distribute the impact evenly.

However, there are shoes that affect the curvature of the foot due to the drop and shallowness of the sole. This stimulates the fascia and causes recurring microtraumas.

Today, a study by the Brazilian Society for the Study of Pain (SBED) indicates that inflammation may be related to “ a structural change more consistent with degenerative processes ”, such as being overweight, age or excessive physical exercise.

And where do minimalist shoes come in?

Unlike conventional sneakers, minimalist shoes respect the feet. This means that the base of the shoe has the necessary space to maintain its natural shape. In other words, the arch of the foot does not exert more force than necessary, being less stressed and, consequently, having less chance of becoming inflamed.

It is believed that wearing minimalist shoes, which emulate the sensation of being barefoot, makes landings firm with the forefoot. In this way, the front part of the foot ends up stretching the plantar fascia.

Therefore, wearing minimalist sneakers prevents injuries, in particular plantar fasciitis, which was our focus today.
Keep an eye on our content to learn more about bringing freedom to your entire life, starting with your feet.

FOT Team