Foot Pain Secondary to the “Minimalist” Running Shoe Transition
Foot Pain Secondary to the “Minimalist” Running Shoe Transition
by Dr. Nicholas A Campitelli – Podiatric Medicine and Surgery
As we transition, we are recruiting and utilizing muscles in our feet that we haven’t used in years. These are the intrinsic muscles. The intrinsic muscles perform the functions of flexing and extending toes, abducting and adducting the digits, and stabilizing the joints of the toes or the metatarsophalangeal joints (MPJs.) We discussed calf pain in a previous post that is due to eccentric contractions and delayed onset muscle soreness. The same scenario is occurring with the foot musculature.
Let’s review the muscles to better understand the reason for the location of the pain.
The extensor digitorum / hallucis brevis muscle belly originates on the lateral or side of the foot. The muscle belly commonly swells and enlarges after activity.
It is Common to experience pain in this muscle belly.
The dorsal and plantar interossei are located between the metatarsal bones and help to stabilize the MPJs as well as splay the toes. It is the hypertrophying of these muscles that leads to the “splaying” we may see after wearing FiveFingers over several months to years.
Pain to the forefoot area that is “pinpoint” over the metatarsal bones, and close to the toe, could represent a stress fracture. Xrays need to be performed if this pain persists.
Pain to the plantar aspect (bottom) of the foot over the metatarsal heads is common secondary to the repetitive pounding but should resolve as you adapt and learn to land softly.
Remember, most muscular pain will worsen upon arising in the am as the muscle is cold, and then will ease up as we move around and “warm up” the muscles. If it does not improve, see your physician for radiographs.
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When it comes to running shoes, i always use those running shoes that are made of synthetic silicone rubber because they are sturdier. *:*:* Warmest regards health and fitness information
I’m not sure. Sorry!
Calf and thigh pain upon touching and flexing can result for a number of reasons, including sciatica, which produces pain along the path of your sciatic nerve that can be painful to the touch. Muscle cramps, strains and tears may also cause pain in your thighs and calves. Treatment and prevention options, such as cold packs, hot packs and stretching exercises, may help alleviate and prevent this discomfort in your legs. Consult your doctor regarding the specific nature of your pain.:
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Any suggestions for stretches for the dorsal muscles shown here? The golf ball massage works well for me for the plantar side, but not sure what to do for the extensor muscles show in your diagram. Thanks!