For certain occasions, such as work interviews or a night out with friends, dress shoes are often a necessity. However, fashion often comes at a price. According to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, certain high heels and dress shoes alter the way we move, including while running and other issues related to biomechanics.
Dress shoes have different toe box shapes, and this allows varying amounts of pressure to be applied to your toes and the rest of your feet. Unfortunately, this has lasting effects on the way our feet behave while running. Additionally, it's not uncommon to discover that the problems you experience with high heels can be transferred to issues with your feet while running. “The muscular or postural problems you have sitting, standing, or walking are problems that may manifest during running,” said Jay Dicharry, author of Anatomy for Runners.
At Sunshein Podiatry, we have the ability to assess not only your gait but also the overall biomechanics of your feet and make corrective recommendations for our patient-athletes. Here's a snapshot of what you need to know.
How Do Our Centerville Podiatrists Use Biomechanics to Help You?
Podiatric biomechanics focuses on how the foot, ankle, and lower leg move and interact with the ground during activities such as running. Our doctors analyze the forces acting on these structures to determine how efficiently a runner moves and whether abnormal motion may increase the risk of injury. By understanding how the ankle and foot absorb impact, propel the body forward, and maintain stability, we'll help identify movement patterns that may limit performance or place excessive stress on muscles, tendons, and joints.
The field gained significant recognition through the work of Merton Root in the 1970s, who demonstrated that controlling the forces between the foot and ankle could improve alignment, strength, and coordination. These principles remain important in podiatric care today, as we apply them to assess how a runner’s biomechanics influence stride, balance, and shock absorption. Subtle imbalances—such as overpronation, limited ankle motion, or uneven weight distribution—can contribute to fatigue and overuse injuries if left uncorrected.
What Type of Footwear Do We Recommend for Runners to Protect Their Feet?
Unlike dress shoes—which are typically narrow, rigid, and designed for appearance rather than function—running shoes are built to accommodate the natural mechanics of the foot during repetitive impact. When we suggest other types of shoes, we consider a runner’s biomechanics, foot structure, and training habits to ensure proper support and comfort. In your treatment plan, we'll address:
- Proper cushioning. Adequate shock absorption helps reduce stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and lower legs during high-impact activity.
- Supportive structure. Footwear should provide appropriate arch support and stability based on your gait, whether neutral, overpronated, or supinated.
- Roomy toe box. Sufficient space in the forefoot allows toes to spread naturally, reducing pressure, blisters, and nerve irritation.
- Secure heel fit. A snug heel helps maintain alignment and prevents excessive movement that can lead to friction or instability.
- Flexibility in the right areas. Shoes should bend at the forefoot while remaining stable through the midfoot for efficient propulsion.
By choosing footwear designed for running rather than fashion, you can better protect your feet, improve comfort, and lower your risk of overuse injuries, while still pursuing the sport you love.