Really, really, really new to barefoot running

Barefoot TJ · May 1, 2020

Scott Bailey said:
First post so here goes. I started wearing barefoot shoes in 2017 for work and running. I managed to run 12 miles at one time . Unfortunately in August 2018 I tried to run five day’s consecutively only five miles a day but my body (left foot screamed no). In August 2019 I finally got a MRI scan and was told that it was a stress response to the head of the 3rd metatarsal with subtle erosive change. Problem is after trying get some running in with my vivobarefoot the aching in the area is back . Just would like some advice from like minded people who have more experience than myself. Or it’s back to the Altra running shoes . Many thanks Scott

Welcome, Scott! Have you tried running without any footwear at all? Maybe if you did, the pain would ease up, since you would be more mindful of how to distribute your weight in that area, i.e., feel what is happening there more. It's possible the shoes are limiting your response to their signals. Try it, please, and let us know how it goes.

Scott Bailey · May 3, 2020

Thank you for your reply. I will give it a go . Would you suggest running on smooth pavement.

Gordon · May 3, 2020

Scott Bailey said:
Thank you for your reply. I will give it a go . Would you suggest running on smooth pavement.

Smooth pavement is where every barefoot runner should start. It's hard, so you can't bang your heels down comfortably. It's smooth, so weak sensitive feet and ankles aren't over challenged. Visibility is good, so you can learn to place your feet between glass, gravel, etc. Once you're comfortable on smooth pavement, you can move to more advanced surfaces, like grass.