Jul 02 2008
Neutral Cushioned Shoes for Cavus Feet
A study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine in June of 2008 evaluated in-shoe pressure in 22 athletes with high arch (cavus) feet. Two neutral-cushioned running shoes (Asics Nimbus 6 and Brooks Glycerin 3) and a control shoe (Dunlop Volley) were used and the pressures were collected using the Novel Pedar-X system. Compared with the control shoe, both neutral-cushioned running shoes significantly reduced peak pressure. The Brooks Glycerin was the most effective at reducing forefoot pressure and the Asics Nimbus 6 was most effective at reducing rearfoot pressure. The Asics Nimbus shoe was considered the most comfortable shoe, but both neutral-cushioned running shoes were more comfortable than the control shoe.
This study helps to confirm the idea that neutral-cushioned running shoes are more comfortable for those with cavus (high arched) feet. This study also demonstrated lower pressures with the neutral-cushioned shoes, and this could mean that those with high arched feet may have less injuries if they run in neutral-cushioned shoes. But, it’s important to note, that injury rate was not evaluated in this study. Further studies may need to be done to help determine if a neutral-cushioned running shoe does decrease the injury rate for runners with high arch feet.
Wegener C, Burns J, Penkala S. Effect of Neutral-Cushioned Running Shoes on Plantar Pressure Loading and Comfort in Athletes With Cavus Feet: A Crossover Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Sports Med. 2008 Jun 24.