Why Do Podiatrists Not Recommend Barefoot Shoes?

Podiatrists often advise against barefoot shoes, and rather motivate patients to use highly cushioned shoes and artificial insoles for comfort and support.
This recommendation is motivated by a comfort-first approach.

Barefoot shoes can initially increase the stress on your feet, ankles and lower legs which can potentially lead to injuries if one is not already accustomed to walking barefoot or in minimalist footwear.

While this may sound scary, there is a reason we were born with this foot shape. It is the most advanced mechanism there is and can be built up to its full ability.
Years of cushioning makes your feet weak and eventually causes problems that lead you to a podiatrist in the first place.

Transitioning to barefoot shoes gradually is the way to sustainably fix foot problems and there are podiatrists who recommend minimalist shoes for that very reason.

Reasons why a podiatrist may not recommend barefoot shoes

1. Increases stress on feet: You will start using muscles you have not used in ages and you can feel soreness after an entire day in barefoot shoes. This is your body leveling up.

2. Potential for injuries: Having stayed away from barefoot walking, your gait pattern changes and there is a high chance the way you walk in regular shoes vs the way you walk in barefoot shoes is different which can become a cause of jerky movements and heel strike causing injuries. It is important to transition gradually and get used to it first.

3. Not suitable for all environments: Not all kinds of barefoot shoes can be worn everywhere. Minimalist shoes have a thin sole which means places with hazardous objects may not be the best place to be wearing barefoot shoes.

Why some podiatrists recommend barefoot shoes

Some podiatrists actually recommend barefoot shoes above all other shoes. Barefoot shoes solve for a lot of foot problems, or at least provide the right environment to heal. Problems like bunions, plantar fasciitis, a fallen arch are problems created by shoes. The only sustainable way to leave these problems behind is to work on muscle strength and restore natural foot function.

It is important however to consult a doctor on the specific issue you may be facing and ask for a long term solution instead of a temporary solution or a product dependency for life.

What should be your steps towards a pain free life

The idea for you should be to give your body the best environment possible to heal itself. If you have extreme pain, a torn muscle and there are chances of reinjury even during regular activities, cushioning in your shoes may help temporarily. This prevents further damage by locking your foot in one place. Long term however, like any other rehab, the idea should be to leave the cushion behind and develop strength in muscles that are lacking so that the injury does not come back again.
In case of chronic pain, this process may take longer, and patience is key.

If you’re looking for a barefoot shoe that can help you - Zen Origin is the perfect shoe you can wear everywhere.

We have also created a Free Mobility Guide that can help you with exercises that restore your mobility and natural function.