How foot morphology changes influence shoe comfort and plantar pressure before and after long distance running?

Prolonged running has been popularized globally in recent decades. This study was aimed to reveal information about foot morphology, shoe comfort and plantar loading among recreational heel-strike runners.

Twenty-six runners participated in foot morphology, perceived scores and peak pressure tests after 10- and 20-km track running. The foot morphology was measured using a 3D foot scanner, perceived scores were recorded using a visual analogue scale and plantar pressure was measured via insole plantar pressure measurement system. The statistical significance level was set at 0.05.

The heel midsole materials properties were measured before and after 20 km. Significant changes were observed in ball width and girth, arch height and foot volume. The perceived scores showed significance in overall, forefoot and heel comfort, arch support and forefoot width. Peak pressure to the heel, medial mid-foot and metatarsal greatly increased. The first metatarsal showed consecutive increase from static to 10 km, and 20 km, while big-toe showed a decrease.

The morphology variations and forefoot loading concentration may lead to discomfort and possibly imply dermatological problems and metatarsal bone stress, particularly on the first metatarsal. Combining changes of heel midsole property, knowledge of foot shape, shoe perception and plantar pressure is of great value for recreational long-distance running shoes design and materials selection.