The Spatio-Temporal Differences Between Gait Parameters from 8 Weeks Minimalist Footwear Habituation: A Comparison of Three Footwear Conditions

Abstract

Introduction Preventing injury in the athletic population is of interest; one suggested technique to achieve this is to modify the gait pattern, which can potentially be attained by barefoot running (Murphy et al. 2013). Manufacturers have now developed minimalist shoes to alleviate the obvious surface hazards that are present while barefoot (Willy & Davies 2013). To date, this intermediate option, that is now readily available, has received limited scientific investigation regarding the effects the footwear may have on spatio-temporal gait parameters, particularly after prolonged habitual wear. Methods Participants (healthy adult males n=15) were randomly allocated to a control or intervention group. The intervention group were provided with a pair of minimalist shoes (Feelmax) to be worn at least 6 hrs a d, 5 d a wk, over an 8 wk habituation period. Spatio-temporal data were obtained both before and after the 8 wk period for all participants. A 16 camera 3D motion capture system (Vicon) and analysed (Vicon BodyBuilder) were utilised. The Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) was used for the statistical data analysis. All spatio-temporal parameters of gait were compared for each trial. Results Complete statistical analysis is pending. The gait parameters to be reported include, but are not limited to; stride length, stride frequency, cadence, step time, stride time, swing time, and stance time. Discussion After the 8 week intervention period, a tendency for alterations in spatio-temporal gait parameters was observed. Bonacci et al. (2013) did not find any kinematic differences between the minimalist shoe and other shod conditions tested. Additionally Willy & Davies (2013) also reported no changes in spatio-temporal gait parameters when compared with the standard running shoe. The dissimilarity in results of previous work, and the present study may be caused by different habituation periods utilised between each investigation. Only a 10 min (Willy & Davies 2013), and a 10 d (Bonacci et al. 2013) habituation period were utilised in comparison to the 8 week period prescribed here. This may suggest a 10 d habituation period is not long enough to modify gait pattern, and therefore prevent injury. Squadron & Gallozi (2009) observed a reduced sagital plane ankle and knee angle just before foot strike while adopting a minimalist shoe. However, the participants of this study were habitual barefoot runners. Therefore, the modification in spatio-temporal gait parameters may be due to the long term barefoot running adaption, and not to the immediate effect of wearing minimalist footwear. References Bonacci, J., Saunders, U., Hicks, A., Rantalain, T., Vicenzino, T. & Spratford, W. (2013). Br J Sports Med. 47 (6), 387-392. Murphy, K., Curry, E. & Matzkin, E. (2013). Sports Med. 43 (11), 1131-1138. Squadrone, R. & Gallozzi, C. (2009). J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 49 (1), 6-13. Will, W. & Davies, S. (2013). Med Scie Sports Excerc. 46 (2), 318-323