FOOT TYPE SHOULD DETERMINE PROPER RUNNING SHOE

Understanding your foot type is key to choosing the right pair of running shoes. Flat-footed athletes tend to overpronate (roll inwards), while those with high arches usually oversupinate (roll outwards). Dr. Sami Tabib, a consultant podiatrist at UAE Podiatry in Dubai, says that motion-control shoes are ideal for overpronators, and cushioned shoes with midsole padding are best for oversupinators. “Stability shoes are best for neutral pronators,” he says.

 

Dr. Sami Tabib

 

Tabib also says that gait analysis is essential to determine your foot type, but warns runners to be sceptical when told by shop assistants that they overpronate. “Pronation is normal and a good shock absorber. Using motion-control shoes unnecessarily can lead to foot and knee problems,” he says.

 

Source: Kathryn Roberts, The National 

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News. 

Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotic Clinics.