Studies have shown that runners wearing these types of shoes are more susceptible to injuries

New research shows that wearing high-heeled shoes may make runners more susceptible to injuries.

People who wear flatter sneakers may higher understand how their feet move while running, which can lead to fewer injuries, researchers on the University of Florida Sports Performance Center report. Boundaries in sport and lively life article published in December.

Researchers analyzed more than six years of data on injury history and shoe type characteristics – weight, cushioning and heel height – of more than 700 racially and ethnically diverse endurance runners aged 12 to 77. They also used special treadmills and movies recorded in motion. to analyze running gait and asked participants to discover their specific “foot strike,” which refers to the best way the foot first touches the bottom.

Those who wore high-heeled sneakers while running had higher injury rates. Runners with thicker heels were also not as accurate at identifying foot strikes compared to runners in flatter shoes, which is probably going the rationale for the high injury rate.

The researchers reached these conclusions after controlling for age, body weight, running volume and competitiveness level.

“We have observed that when runners run with their heels higher, they may have a false sense that the forefoot is striking first and often believe that they are ‘forefoot striking’.” Heather K. Vincent, Ph.Dsaid the director of the UF Sports Performance Center and lead writer of the study Health. “In fact, they clearly strike backwards, with the heel of the shoe striking first.”

This confusion around foot movement can lead to injury, Lori Diamos, Portugal, – said the functional movement specialist Health.

“Just as standing on a foam pad challenges your balance and control, these shoes impair your body’s ability to feel and respond to the ground,” she said. “This forces you to rely more on the shoe for stability rather than your muscles and joints, increasing your risk of injuries such as a sprained ankle or knee pain.”

Despite the link between high-heeled sneakers and injuries, researchers emphasize that they still have no idea whether these types of shoes actually causes injuries. Although other studies – albeit smaller ones – have also found that heel height and foot movement can influence running injuries, further research could be needed to determine a possible causal relationship.

Regardless of the anomaly, in case your research leaves you in search of flatter running shoes – or any type of latest running shoe – it is best to take some precautions to avoid injury.

First, search for shoes that suit your foot type but don’t force you to change your natural running style. Emma Anderson– said the certified personal trainer and exercise science trainer at Fit Athletic Club Health.

“Running shoes should be comfortable, durable, but also breathable and flexible,” she said. “Make sure your feet have enough room and your toes are not pinched.”

You also want to check that the shoes are designed for the terrain you propose to run on, whether that’s a treadmill, trail, treadmill or street, she added.

In general, experts recommend starting slowly. Do shorter runs in your latest shoes and keep your old ones with you so you possibly can switch between them over just a few weeks.

“Not every shoe may be right for you,” Anderson added, “so if you notice pain or discomfort when changing running shoes, stop and look for another shoe that may be more suitable.”