Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
Injuries observed in minimalist runners.
Matthew J Salzler1, Eric M Bluman, Samantha Noonan
1Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
Switching to minimalist running footwear can lead to injuries like stress fractures and plantar fascia rupture, despite the promotion of natural gait. Recovery is possible, but caution is advised during the transition period.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Running Injuries
Background:
- Minimalist runners exhibit distinct gait patterns with reduced impact forces compared to shod runners.
- Minimalist footwear is advocated for injury reduction by promoting a more natural running form.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate injuries sustained by experienced runners after transitioning to minimalist footwear.
- To document the types of injuries, their timing, and patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Ten experienced runners with injuries within one year of switching to minimalist footwear were interviewed.
- Data collected included running history, injury details, transition experience, and recovery status.
Main Results:
- All ten patients had previously run in traditional footwear for an average of 18.9 years.
- Injuries occurred 2.8 months after switching to minimalist shoes and included metatarsal and calcaneal stress fractures, and plantar fascia rupture.
- All patients recovered successfully and resumed their previous running mileage.
Conclusions:
- Minimalist running can be associated with specific injuries such as stress fractures and plantar fascia rupture.
- While recovery is achievable, the transition to minimalist footwear warrants careful consideration.
More Related Videos
06:35Using Gold-standard Gait Analysis Methods to Assess Experience Effects on Lower-limb Mechanics During Moderate High-heeled Jogging and Running
Published on: September 14, 2017
06:52An Inertial Measurement Unit Based Method to Estimate Hip and Knee Joint Kinematics in Team Sport Athletes on the Field
Published on: May 26, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
Bones of the Lower Limb: Tibia and Fibula
Muscles of the Leg that Move the Foot and Toes
Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment includes muscles that contribute to the dorsiflexion of the foot. This compartment houses the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus muscles.
Ankle Joint