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PODIATRY TODAY - Conclusion

March 2009
Study Examines Shoelace Patterns On Running Shoes
By Brian McCurdy, Senior Editor


When Tight Lacing Is Problematic
Podiatrists see more frequent injuries from shoes laced too tightly than from loose laces. They say injuries arising from too tight laces commonly include tendinopathy in the extensor tendons and in the anterior tibial tendon. Since there is little intrinsic protective tissue over the dorsum, podiatrists note that shoelaces can impinge and injure tendons that are actively working during the contact phase of gait.

“These injuries, once they occur, are extremely difficult to resolve. I would much rather advocate a comfortable, medium tension lace adjustment rather than a tight lace for most athletes,” says an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Biomechanics at the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt College.

He notes that if the quarter of the shoe is too high, the ALL7 lacing pattern can cause irritation on the ankle bones (fibular more than tibial) “because it snugs up the topline of the shoe opening.”

Another podiatrist says there are several variables (including foot structure and bony prominences) that one should consider. He says runners might skip a pair of eyelets if they have bony prominences. This same doctor also points out that it can be impractical in some situations to lace a shoe tightly due to spurs or a high instep as this could cause dorsal nerve compression.

Podiatrists can offer different lacing patterns for various types of patients. In addition to high instep, runners with a wide foot, narrow foot, pronated foot or supinated foot may require different lacing techniques. For example, podiatrists can employ a forefoot lacing pattern for patients with recurrent great toe problems to lessen excessive pressure that will help to prevent subungual hematomas.

Be sure to explore Dr. Vail's website for more information about proper care of your feet.