Injuries Built into the Ill-Fitting Shoes

A new study will focus on the marathon runner's to find evidence between the foot injuries and the ill fitting shoes.

This study will be conducted by the researchers from the Loyala University Mediacal Center. It will be based on the survey runners in the Oct.7 Bank of America Chicago Marathon who seek treatment for foot and ankle injuries in the podiatry.

The runners will be enquired on what was their chief complaint for entering the podiatry tent. They would then measure the runner's feet and shoe sizes.  They will then record how many marathons each runner has completed including the brand and style of the runner's shoes and socks.

The researchers will ask the runners to estimate the miles they have put on their shoes. Runners who use minimalist shoes that mimic barefoot running will not be included in the study. According to the experts replacing the shoes after 500 miles is always recommended, but short runners keep their shoes much longer.

Prior to this the studies have examined that shoe fit and foot injuries amongst the diabetic and old patients. But according to Loyola podiatrist Katherine Dux, DPM, principal investigator of the study, this is the first study to examine the association between shoe fit and foot injuries in marathon runners.

Since 2003 Dux has volunteered her time to treat Chicago marathon runners in the podiatry tent. Nearly 200 and 400 runners seek treatment for such injuries as blisters, toenail injuries, plantar fasciitis (heel pain), foot stress fractures and sprained ankles. 

"Most of these injuries are related to improper shoes, socks or training," Dux said.

Shoes that are either too small or too large can cause injuries. Many runners buy shoes that are a half-a-size or a full size too large, to allow for foot swelling during running and to make room for their orthotics.

According to Dux, while buying running shoes, wear your normal running socks and orthotics, and buy late in the day after your feet have become swollen from walking around all day.