Running myths and realities – What to do with flat feet for running?

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Running myths and realities – What to do with flat feet for running?

Running is a sport that is rapidly growing in popularity. The simplicity of this sport and its health benefits fuel the motivation to put on your shoes and go for a run.

As with many things, unfortunately, a huge number of myths related to running circulate through word of mouth and personal anecdotes. In this series of blog articles, we set the record straight by demystifying certain key aspects of running.

What to do about flat feet when running? Absolutely nothing!

There is no scientific evidence that flat feet cause injuries. From Achilles tendinopathy to plantar fasciitis, flat feet are NOT the cause of your aches and pains.

If you have flat feet, it's likely been the case since childhood, meaning you were born with it. Your body is fully adapted to your foot type since you've been walking, running, and playing with these same feet your whole life.
Therefore, it's completely unnecessary to have arch supports or shoes with anti-pronation control to be safe while running.

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To learn more...

To learn more about running, check out the podcast "Parle-moi de santé" (Let's Talk Health) created by one of our physiotherapists, Alexis Gougeon. Episode #1 discusses running.

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Episode #1: Prevention and treatment of running injuries.

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Find the episode on YouTube:

Click below to listen to episodes on podcast platforms:

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Source

Cowan DN, Jones BH, Robinson JR. Foot morphologic characteristics and risk of exercise-related injury. Archives of family medicine. 1993 Jul 1;2(7):773-7.
Ramskov D, Jensen ML, Obling K, Nielsen RO, Parner ET, Rasmussen S. No association between q-angle and foot posture with running-related injuries: a 10 week prospective follow-up study. International journal of sports physical therapy. 2013 Aug;8(4):407.

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