Sunday, April 11, 2010

VFF: Top of foot pain

I've had my first real problem from barefoot running (in my Vibram Fivefingers). I noticed the other night after a 14k trail run that I had some considerable foot pain on the top of my right foot. I assumed that I had twisted my foot on the run.

After a week of rest I decided to have a go at the Lincoln 5k Road Race. I wore my Fivefingers. I had a good race and felt good about my performance but soon had an even worse onset of pain on the top of my foot.

After a bit of research I have found that top of foot pain is fairly common in barefoot running. I have a feeling that I've gone a little too hard with my VFFs and I'm now paying the price.

I'm going to take a couple of weeks rest and then start back very slowly on short runs. I'll probably stick with my regular shoes for now on longer runs until I feel more confident in my foot strength.

Here are a couple of good links about this problem:
http://therunningbarefoot.com/?p=1186
http://barefootjason.blogspot.com/2010/02/vibram-top-of-foot-pain-connection.html
http://www.runnersworld.com/community/forums/runner-communities/barefoot-running/top-of-foot-pain-warning-newbies

6 comments:

  1. This is a rare occurrence of pain on that area. It would be wise to consult a podiatrists.

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  2. This could be either chronic or a muscle irritation. Either way, it is best to consult a professional about this.

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  3. Manage your foot pain with the right treatment. Include comfortable shoes as well.

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  4. Prolonged pain on the foot could be due to structural damage. I advice on consultation with a podiatrist.

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    1. I think I need to heed advice and talk to a pro. I'm still having (reasonably minor) pain in my foot. Usually it goes away once I'm warmed up though.

      Thanks for the comment.

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  5. That's a perfect pair of shoes if you really prefer barefoot running. There are several shoe lines that has barefoot shoes collection. Great to know that you're recuperating.

    dansko shoes

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I appreciate your feedback, comments and other helpful input.