Why I Transitioned to Barefoot Shoes
To be honest, I never had foot issues before. I have naturally wide feet and always disliked how narrow some shoes felt. I would often go up a size to accommodate the width if a wide option wasn’t available. So, transitioning to barefoot shoes was relatively easy for me. However, that doesn’t mean I didn’t have other issues.
Impact on My Low Back Pain
I’ve dealt with low back problems for years, as I’ve mentioned in previous blogs. Currently, my back is in the best shape it’s ever been. While I can’t fully credit barefoot shoes for this, they are definitely a contributing factor. My low back and hamstring flexibility are the best they’ve ever been. Although I’m not lifting as heavy as before, I still train fairly heavy and consistently.
How My Training Has Changed
My training has changed a lot since switching to barefoot shoes. I feel more connected to the ground and more stable through my foot. As a result, my knees feel more stable, and my hips are more mobile. I have better activation throughout my entire foot and more awareness of my footing. I’m more balanced when doing single-leg exercises like lunges and split squats.
Changes in My Gait
I’ve also noticed a change in my gait. I now walk with more internal rotation through my hips. Some might say I walk almost pigeon-toed, but I’m actually walking through the midline of my foot and extending over my big toe. When I wear narrow toe box shoes, I notice more external rotation at my hips. This causes my feet to turn out and my big toes to adduct, a common mechanic that can lead to bunions. Instead of extending through my big toe, my foot rolls through the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint, pushing my big toe into adduction. When I catch myself walking this way, I try to correct it, but it’s a challenge.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I can’t attribute all these changes solely to barefoot shoes, but they are one of many things I’ve done for my physical health. The differences have been quite significant when I look back.
Recommended Barefoot Shoe Brands
If you’re interested in switching to barefoot shoes, here’s a list of brands I often recommend to patients. These are just a few; many more brands are emerging as more manufacturers are making barefoot, wider shoes.
Additional Resources
For more information on the benefits of barefoot shoes and foot health, check out an older blog on our website about wide toe box shoes. Foot Collective also provides a wealth of information on foot health. For fashion advice and shoe alternatives, Anya’s Reviews website and Instagram are great resources.
And as you start replacing your shoes, bring your gently used pairs to the office for donation. We’ve partnered with Soles 4 Souls, a non-profit that collects shoe donations for those in need. They’re a fantastic organization, and we have a donation bin in our office at all times.
