Shin Injuries Higher in Heel Strike Running

Does Heel Striking Cause Injury to the Shin? YES!

06/01/2025 Bretta Riches 613

Heel strike running was found to be a big risk factor for shin splints and fracture by causing a functional loss of impact absorption in the knee, while causing too much force-intensive stop and go (i.e. too much intense braking) as compared with forefoot running, which was found to do a better job at improving knee flexion, thereby reducing dangerous loads to the shins.

Can You Run In Barefoot Shoes? Yes, But DON’T Heel Strike!

Can You Run In Barefoot Shoes? Yes, But DON’T Heel Strike!

21/07/2024 Bretta Riches 2

Because it offers a more natural connection with the ground, running in barefoot shoes does a better job at improving the coordination of a proper forefoot strike, while discouraging a high impact heel strike. However, always make sure you never heel strike when you run, not just in a barefoot shoe, but even in a cushioned shoes as this landing pattern increases the risk of a boney fracture in the foot.