Knee Pain Prevention Tips with Barefoot Shoes Science

With knee pain impacting millions globally, the rising trend of barefoot shoes has emerged due to their potential benefits in reducing joint strain. A pioneering study conducted in 2025 has highlighted that these minimalist footwear designs encourage natural foot movement, which supports better body alignment and reduces the pressure exerted on the knees. Research indicates that barefoot shoes can notably lower injury risks commonly associated with traditional cushioned footwear that might disrupt your normal gait. However, it is vital to transition gradually to avoid discomfort from a sudden switch. If you’re considering barefoot shoes, consulting a specialist is recommended to ensure compatibility with your unique biomechanics. While scientific studies suggest various benefits, the effectiveness of these shoes ultimately depends on your individual needs.

Understand the Intricacies of Knee Pain and Its Causes

The knee joint is a complex structure that supports a significant portion of your body’s weight, making it vulnerable to injuries and degeneration over time. Knee pain can stem from several factors, including overuse, inadequate biomechanics, or underlying conditions such as arthritis. By identifying the root causes of your knee pain, you can take proactive steps, including choosing supportive footwear, to protect your joints and maintain optimal mobility. Understanding these complexities is essential to effectively manage and prevent knee pain.

Examine the Anatomy of the Knee Joint

Diving deeper into the anatomy, the knee joint consists of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons that work together in a delicate balance. The femur, tibia, and patella create the joint structure, while the menisci act as crucial shock absorbers during movement. Any damage to these components can disrupt normal movement patterns, leading to significant discomfort and limiting your physical activities. Recognizing the intricate anatomy can help you better understand knee health and the importance of proper care.

Recognize Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain is often primarily attributed to osteoarthritis, ligament tears, and repetitive stress injuries. Other contributing factors include poor alignment, muscle imbalances, and sudden injuries. Identifying the underlying cause is vital for implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies tailored to your specific situation. For many, as age increases or during high-impact activities such as running, knee pain may worsen, exacerbated by excess weight, which places additional strain on the knees. Weak quadriceps or hamstrings may also fail to provide sufficient support and stability. Addressing these contributing factors early can drastically lower the likelihood of long-term damage.

Investigate the Influence of Footwear on Knee Health

The type of footwear you select plays a crucial role in determining knee stress, alongside activity levels and posture. Traditional cushioned shoes can alter your natural gait, causing misalignment and increasing stress on your knees. Conversely, barefoot shoes are designed to facilitate more natural movements, potentially alleviating joint strain. Even minor adjustments to your footwear can produce significant benefits. For example, wearing high heels can elevate knee pressure by approximately 23%, while minimalist shoes encourage better alignment and more even load distribution, which may help relieve discomfort.

Explore the Scientific Foundations of Footwear Choices

Recent scientific inquiries suggest that the footwear choices you make can directly impact your knee health. Research in biomechanics shows that traditional shoes can alter your natural gait, while barefoot shoes promote proper alignment and reduce joint strain. Studies indicate that minimalist footwear may diminish impact forces on the knees by encouraging a forefoot strike pattern, which can aid in preventing long-term damage. Understanding this scientific basis empowers you to make informed decisions about your joint health and footwear selections.

Analyze Traditional Shoe Designs and Their Negative Effects

A close examination of traditional footwear reveals that conventional shoes, often featuring elevated heels and cushioned soles, can disrupt your natural foot mechanics. Such designs shift your weight forward, increasing pressure on your knees while altering your posture. Over time, these changes can lead to chronic pain or injuries, as the joints compensate for a lack of natural movement. Being aware of these adverse effects can guide you towards making better choices for your knee health.

Discover the Growing Popularity of Minimalist and Barefoot Shoes

In light of these considerations, minimalist and barefoot shoes have gained popularity for their ability to replicate natural foot function. With their thin soles and zero drop, these shoe designs promote stronger foot muscles and enhance proprioception, potentially leading to a significant reduction in knee strain during physical activities. Further research underscores the potential for these shoes to improve gait efficiency. A notable study conducted in 2024 showed that participants wearing barefoot shoes experienced a remarkable 15% reduction in knee load compared to those in traditional footwear, indicating long-term benefits for joint health.

Evaluate the Claims Surrounding the Benefits of Barefoot Shoes

The ongoing dialogue about barefoot shoes frequently emphasizes their ability to alleviate knee pain. While several studies indicate reduced joint stress, others warn that an abrupt transition can lead to overuse injuries. It is essential to assess your biomechanics and make gradual adjustments to ensure a safe and effective transition. Individual variability plays a significant role—what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Consulting a podiatrist or physical therapist can help ensure you select footwear that meets your unique needs, minimizing risks while maximizing potential benefits.

Understanding How Footwear Choices Impact Knee Health

Numerous studies suggest that traditional shoes, with their thick soles and arch support, can disrupt your natural gait, consequently increasing stress on your knees. Barefoot shoes, crafted to replicate the sensation of walking barefoot, foster a more neutral foot strike, significantly reducing joint strain. Research indicates that this approach may lower your risk of knee pain by promoting better alignment and muscle engagement. Choosing footwear that supports natural movement is essential for maintaining long-term knee health and overall well-being.

Examine Heel Elevation and Its Impact on Joint Loading

Notably, around 60-75% of conventional shoes feature raised heels, shifting your weight forward and increasing pressure on your knee joints. This unnatural incline can lead to overpronation and uneven load distribution, heightening the risk of injuries. In contrast, barefoot shoes eliminate heel elevation, allowing you to maintain a balanced posture and diminishing strain on your knees during movement. This structural difference is a key factor in promoting knee health.

Understand the Role of Cushioning in Knee Impact

While heel cushioning in traditional shoes may reduce immediate impact, it can also impair your foot’s natural shock-absorbing capabilities. Over time, this reliance on artificial cushioning can contribute to joint degeneration by altering your stride and diminishing muscle activation. Barefoot shoes encourage your body to absorb impact naturally, strengthening muscles and tendons in the process. Footwear with excessive cushioning can impair proprioception, your body’s ability to sense ground contact, potentially resulting in heavier heel strikes that increase stress on the knees.

Analyze Biomechanical Changes from Different Footwear Choices

Wearing traditional shoes tends to shorten your stride and increase the force with which your foot strikes the ground, amplifying knee load. In contrast, barefoot shoes promote a forefoot or midfoot strike, mitigating abrupt forces on your joints. This biomechanical adjustment can enhance balance and reduce the risk of injuries by aligning your lower body more naturally. Prolonged use of stiff, supportive shoes may weaken intrinsic foot muscles, resulting in increased knee instability. Barefoot shoes help restore natural foot mobility, improving shock absorption and reducing reliance on the knees for stability. For individuals with pre-existing knee conditions, a gradual transition is essential to prevent overloading underutilized muscles.

Explore the Biomechanics of Barefoot Shoes in Easing Knee Pain

Upon transitioning to barefoot shoes, your gait typically shifts towards a forefoot or midfoot strike, which significantly decreases impact forces on the knees. This shift in biomechanics fosters better alignment, alleviating stress on the patellofemoral joint and enhancing shock absorption. Research suggests that minimalist footwear can lower knee joint loading by up to 12%, establishing it as a valuable tool for pain prevention and overall knee health.

Review Clinical Studies Supporting Barefoot Shoes for Pain Relief

Beyond anecdotal evidence, clinical studies affirm that barefoot shoes can mitigate knee pain by promoting a more natural walking and running stride. A meta-analysis conducted in 2024 revealed that participants wearing minimalist footwear experienced an impressive 30% reduction in knee discomfort compared to those using traditional shoes, likely due to enhanced proprioception and decreased heel-strike forces.

Assess the Impact of Minimalist Footwear on Gait Mechanics

By encouraging a shorter stride and quicker cadence, barefoot shoes facilitate a lighter landing that minimizes knee strain. This adjustment in gait redistributes pressure away from the joints, potentially preventing overuse injuries. Due to the absence of cushioning, your body adapts more quickly to a more efficient running style; however, transitioning too rapidly can elevate injury risk, making a gradual adaptation process vital.

Explore Neuromuscular Adaptations Linked to Barefoot Running

For optimal knee health, barefoot running strengthens the muscles in your feet and lower legs, boosting stability. These neuromuscular adaptations enhance joint control, minimizing uneven loads that lead to pain. Training in barefoot shoes activates smaller stabilizer muscles that often go neglected when wearing cushioned footwear, but improper form can result in Achilles or plantar fascia strain. It’s crucial to monitor your body’s responses to avoid overloading your tissues.

Recommended Models for Knee Pain Prevention

If you’re exploring barefoot shoes to improve your knee health, consider models such as Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III, Xero Prio, and Vibram FiveFingers. These selections feature minimal cushioning and a wide toe box, promoting natural foot movement while alleviating joint strain. Research indicates that such designs can improve alignment and evenly distribute pressure, potentially leading to relief from knee pain. Ensure that the fit corresponds to your foot shape for maximum benefits.

Discover Leading Brands in the Barefoot Shoe Industry

Brands like Vivobarefoot, Xero Shoes, and Vibram are leading the charge in the barefoot shoe market. Vivobarefoot focuses on sustainability, Xero emphasizes flexibility, and Vibram offers toe-separated designs. Each brand meets distinct needs, yet all prioritize zero-drop soles and ground feedback, which can help prevent knee pain by fostering proper gait mechanics. Researching these brands will guide you toward making informed choices.

In-Depth Review of the Xero Prio Model

Among various options, the Xero Prio stands out due to its lightweight design and adjustable straps, ensuring a secure fit. Its thin sole provides excellent ground feel, while the flexible construction allows your foot to move naturally, thereby reducing stress on your knees. Analysis indicates that the Prio’s 5mm sole strikes an ideal balance between protection and sensory feedback, making it suitable for both runners and walkers. However, transitioning too quickly could increase discomfort if your muscles are not conditioned for barefoot movement.

Explore the Benefits of the Vivobarefoot HFS Model

Selecting the Vivobarefoot HFS gives you a breathable mesh upper and an ultra-thin sole, making it perfect for active lifestyles. Its anatomical shape supports natural toe splay, enhancing balance and reducing knee strain over time. Shoe experts highlight the HFS’s durability and versatility; however, its lack of arch support may pose a challenge for new users. Gradually increasing wear time can help prevent overuse injuries while still benefitting from its knee-friendly features.

Strategies for Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes Safely

To ensure a smooth transition to barefoot shoes, start by wearing them for short periods each day, allowing your feet and knees to gradually adjust to the new design. Gradually increasing your wearing time over the weeks will help avoid overloading your muscles and joints. Complement this transition with foot-strengthening exercises to enhance stability and reduce knee strain. Taking these steps will maximize the benefits of your new footwear.

Recognize the Importance of a Gradual Transition

To prevent injury, it’s essential to give your body adequate time to adapt to the minimal support provided by barefoot shoes. A sudden switch can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or increased knee pain. Ease into the transition by alternating with your regular footwear and closely monitoring your body’s responses. Taking a measured approach will help you adjust more comfortably.

Identify Potential Challenges and Solutions

Initially, shoes with thin soles may cause discomfort as your feet adapt. Start on soft surfaces like grass or carpet, and consider using toe spacers if necessary to improve alignment. Incorporating strengthening exercises can further help mitigate early soreness. Common challenges such as blisters or calf tightness can occur but are manageable. Choose well-fitted barefoot shoes made from breathable materials, and integrate stretching to alleviate muscle tension. If discomfort persists, consult a podiatrist or physical therapist to ensure a proper adaptation process.

Track Your Progress and Make Necessary Adjustments

Alongside monitoring your wearing time, keep a record of any changes in knee pain or foot strength. If you experience ongoing discomfort, adjust your routine accordingly, and celebrate small achievements like improved balance or reduced pain. By consistently tracking your progress, you’ll be able to identify patterns—such as increased comfort on uneven terrain or lingering soreness. Utilize this feedback to refine your transition strategy, ensuring long-term benefits for your joint health and mobility.

Transformative Success Stories from Users of Barefoot Shoes

Your journey toward knee pain relief may resonate with the experiences of countless others who have adopted barefoot shoes. Many individuals report experiencing reduced discomfort, improved posture, and enhanced mobility within weeks. These personal accounts highlight the potential of minimalist footwear to transform joint health, supported by both scientific research and personal success stories.

Case Study: Transformation from Pain to Performance

In addition to clinical research, individual stories stand out. One runner suffering from chronic knee pain experienced an astonishing 70% reduction in discomfort after six months of wearing barefoot shoes. Their running stride became more efficient, allowing them to return to the sport pain-free, illustrating the importance of adaptability in transitioning to new footwear.

Testimonials from Athletes and Casual Runners

Alongside expert opinions, everyday users praise barefoot shoes for their effectiveness in alleviating knee strain. Marathon runners appreciate the improved shock absorption, while casual wearers note enhanced balance and fewer aches after prolonged walking sessions. Feedback consistently emphasizes the necessity of gradual adaptation, as those who attempted a rapid transition often faced overuse injuries, underscoring the importance of patience and proper technique.

Key Insights from Real-Life Experiences

Although performance improvements may not be immediate, the benefits are clear. Users committed to wearing barefoot shoes have strengthened foot muscles, reduced knee load, and frequently abandoned orthotics. The most significant takeaway is that listening to your body is essential to avoid setbacks. Casual adopters emphasize the importance of starting slow. Rushing the adaptation process led to soreness, whereas those who paced themselves experienced long-term benefits. Whether you are an athlete or a casual walker, the right approach is crucial.

Integrate Foot Strengthening Exercises into Your Routine

To maintain healthy knees, it’s beneficial to incorporate foot-strengthening exercises into your daily routine. Research shows that barefoot shoes facilitate natural foot movement, but combining them with targeted exercises can further alleviate knee pain by improving alignment and stability. Strong feet serve as the foundation of your body, enabling even distribution of impact and preventing excessive strain on your joints.

Emphasize the Significance of Foot Muscle Development

Exercises that engage your foot muscles enhance proprioception and balance, significantly decreasing the likelihood of knee injuries. Weak foot muscles can lead to overpronation or suboptimal gait mechanics, which increases stress on the knees. By fortifying these muscles, you provide support for your entire lower body, encouraging improved movement patterns that protect your joints.

Recommended Exercises for Strengthening Your Feet

At home, you can practice exercises like toe curls, marble pickups, and short-foot exercises to activate intrinsic foot muscles. These simple movements enhance arch support and stability, which are crucial for preventing knee pain while wearing barefoot shoes. Remember, strengthening your feet doesn’t require heavy equipment; focus on slow, controlled movements to avoid overloading your tendons. Excessive training too soon can lead to strain, so start at a low intensity and gradually increase the difficulty.

Incorporate Foot Exercises into Your Daily Life

Foot exercises yield the most benefits when performed regularly. Dedicate 5-10 minutes each day, ideally before or after wearing barefoot shoes, to reinforce muscle memory and adaptability. Taking a gradual approach ensures long-term advantages. Neglecting rest days or advancing too quickly may result in injuries. Always heed your body’s signals and adjust the intensity based on your comfort levels.

Understand Footwear’s Impact on Other Joints

While knee pain is a primary concern, your footwear choices significantly affect your ankles, hips, and spine as well. Traditional shoes with raised heels or rigid soles can disrupt your natural gait, thereby increasing stress on these joints. Conversely, barefoot shoes encourage proper alignment, alleviating strain on your entire musculoskeletal system. Research indicates that minimalist footwear can lower injury risks by promoting natural movement patterns, benefiting joints beyond just the knees.

Explore the Connection Between Feet and Hip Health

An often-overlooked connection is how your feet influence hip stability. Inadequate footwear can lead to disrupted pelvic alignment, resulting in tight hip flexors or imbalances. Barefoot shoes strengthen intrinsic foot muscles, enhancing hip mobility and alleviating compensatory strain. Studies suggest this can help prevent chronic conditions like bursitis or labral tears, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right footwear.

Assess Spinal Alignment and Its Relationship to Footwear Choices

More broadly, your footwear selections directly impact spinal health. Arch support or heel elevation can shift your center of gravity, potentially leading to lumbar misalignment. Barefoot shoes promote a neutral spine, minimizing lower back pain and enhancing posture over time. Footwear featuring excessive cushioning or arch support can impair proprioception, disrupting your body’s natural balance. This misalignment might force your spine to compensate, increasing the risk of herniated discs or sciatica. A gradual transition to barefoot shoes can help restore natural spinal curves, relieving pressure on the vertebrae.

Promote Comprehensive Joint Health Through Thoughtful Footwear Selection

Other joints, including the shoulders and elbows, can also benefit indirectly from minimalist footwear. By enhancing whole-body mechanics, barefoot shoes reduce compensatory movements that can strain upper joints. This holistic approach prevents overuse injuries and improves overall mobility. Comprehensive joint health begins at the ground level; selecting barefoot shoes supports optimal biomechanics, minimizing wear and tear on cartilage and ligaments. Ignoring the impact of footwear on joint health can accelerate degenerative conditions like arthritis, while making mindful choices fosters long-term resilience.

Explore the Psychological Aspects of Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes

Every transition requires a degree of mental adaptation, and switching to barefoot shoes is no exception. You may face psychological resistance due to ingrained habits or fears of discomfort. Key challenges may include:

• Fear of injury from reduced cushioning
• Social pressure to conform to conventional footwear
• Patience needed for gradually developing foot strength

Recognizing these barriers is the first step towards a successful transition.

Overcome Mental Barriers to Change

Factors such as self-doubt or skepticism can hinder your transition to barefoot shoes. Start by reframing discomfort as a sign of adaptation rather than a failure. Educate yourself about the biomechanical benefits of barefoot shoes to reinforce your commitment to this change. By understanding the advantages, you can build the confidence necessary to embrace this new footwear style.

Practice Mindfulness in Shoe Selection

By becoming aware of how your feet interact with the ground, you cultivate body awareness. This mindful approach enables you to detect subtle changes in your gait, which can help reduce strain on your knees. Mindfulness also extends to selecting shoes that align with your natural movement. Avoid rigid soles that limit foot mobility, as these can exacerbate knee pain over time. Choosing the right shoes will support your journey toward improved joint health.

Build Confidence in Your New Footwear

In addition to physical adaptation, your trust in barefoot shoes will grow through consistent use. Begin with short walks to allow your feet to adjust, gradually increasing the duration as strength improves. Even minor setbacks, such as temporary soreness, are normal. Pushing too hard too soon can lead to injury, while a gradual progression is key to achieving long-term success. Celebrate small victories to keep your motivation high.

Dispelling Common Myths Surrounding Barefoot Running

To clarify misconceptions, barefoot running is not merely about removing shoes—it signifies a biomechanical shift. Many believe it leads to injuries; however, research indicates that it can strengthen foot muscles and improve gait when done correctly. Some view it as a passing trend, yet studies connect it with reduced knee pain through its encouragement of natural movement. Nonetheless, neglecting proper transition can be risky, making gradual adaptation essential for safe practice.

Myth: Barefoot Shoes Are Only for Experienced Runners

An outdated belief suggests that minimalist footwear is only suitable for seasoned runners. In reality, beginners can benefit from barefoot shoes by learning correct form from the start. The key is to begin slowly—your feet need time to adapt, and age or experience should never hinder your journey toward better foot health.

Myth: Minimalist Footwear Offers No Protection

The fact that barefoot shoes feature thin soles does not imply they provide no defense. Modern barefoot shoes offer essential ground feedback while safeguarding against sharp objects. They strike a balance between sensitivity and safety, unlike traditional shoes that dull natural reflexes. Indeed, minimalist footwear enhances proprioception, allowing you to navigate your environment more effectively. While they lack cushioning, their flexible materials reduce joint strain by promoting midfoot strikes. Just be cautious on rough terrains until your feet are accustomed.

Myth: Transitioning Is Only Suitable for Younger Athletes

Above all, age does not dictate your ability to make this transition. Older adults can experience benefits such as improved balance and reduced knee pain. The secret lies in a gradual transition and attentiveness to your body’s signals. When considering joint health, rushing the adaptation process can lead to injury. Older individuals should prioritize low-impact activities initially, such as walking, before progressing to running. Patience is key to achieving lasting gains without setbacks.

Addressing Frequently Asked Questions About Barefoot Shoes

Despite the growing interest in barefoot shoes for knee pain prevention, numerous questions persist. You may wonder if they suit your needs, how to transition safely, or what key features to prioritize. Below, we address common concerns with evidence-based insights to aid you in making informed decisions regarding barefoot footwear.

Can Barefoot Shoes Worsen Knee Pain?

While there are numerous advantages, improper use of barefoot shoes can exacerbate knee pain if you transition too quickly or have pre-existing conditions. Without sufficient arch support or adequate muscle strength, your joints may experience added stress. It’s prudent to consult a specialist if you suffer from chronic pain or mobility issues before making this switch.

How Long Does It Take to Adapt to Barefoot Shoes?

The adaptation period for barefoot shoes varies; most individuals require approximately 4-8 weeks to transition comfortably. Start with short wear periods and gradually increase the duration to prevent strain. Your foot muscles and gait will adjust at their own pace. Common inquiries about adaptation often focus on discomfort; while mild soreness is typical, sharp pain signals overuse. Always listen to your body and reduce activity when necessary. Incorporating strengthening exercises can help expedite this process.

What Should I Prioritize When Choosing Barefoot Shoes?

For optimal fit, prioritize flexible soles, a wide toe box, and a zero-drop design. These features mimic natural movement and help minimize knee strain. Avoid rigid materials that can restrict foot mobility. Additionally, consider the terrain you’ll be active on; if you plan to engage on uneven surfaces, opt for minimal cushioning to protect without sacrificing ground feedback. Always test shoes indoors before committing to outdoor use.

Insights from Experts on Barefoot Footwear

Many podiatrists, physical therapists, and biomechanists agree that barefoot shoes can enhance knee alignment and alleviate pain by promoting natural movement. However, they caution that an abrupt transition may heighten the risk of injury if your feet and legs are not adequately conditioned. Experts emphasize the importance of gradual adaptation and maintaining proper form to maximize benefits while minimizing strain.

Insights from Sports Podiatrists

The sports podiatrists we consulted highlight that barefoot shoes can strengthen foot arches and reduce knee stress by encouraging a midfoot strike. However, they caution that individuals with pre-existing foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, should seek professional advice before making the transition to avoid aggravating symptoms.

Views from Physical Therapists

Among physical therapists, there is strong support for barefoot shoes in rehabilitating knee pain by restoring natural gait mechanics. They observe that these shoes can help activate smaller stabilizing muscles, which are often underutilized in conventional footwear. Research cited by therapists shows that barefoot shoes can reduce joint impact forces by up to 12%, thus lowering the risk of osteoarthritis. However, they stress that improper usage—such as overdoing it too soon—can lead to strain on tendons or ligaments.

Perspectives from Biomechanists

Analysis by biomechanists indicates that barefoot shoes enhance proprioception, enabling your body to adjust stride length and foot placement, which helps prevent knee overload. However, they caution that running on hard surfaces without proper adaptation may heighten the risk of stress fractures. Research confirms that minimalist designs improve balance and reduce knee torque, but biomechanists recommend pairing them with strength training for optimal outcomes. Without adequate preparation, you may replace knee pain with foot or ankle problems.

Final Thoughts on the Benefits of Barefoot Shoes

Current research supports the notion that barefoot shoes represent a promising option for knee pain prevention, as they promote natural foot mechanics and alleviate joint stress. By encouraging proper alignment and strengthening the muscles in your lower limbs, these minimalist footwear choices may help to mitigate discomfort and enhance mobility. If you are considering barefoot shoes, consulting with a podiatrist or physical therapist is advisable to ensure they align with your biomechanics. Coupling these shoes with a gradual adaptation period and targeted exercises can optimize their benefits for your knee health and overall well-being. Stay informed about emerging research to make educated, evidence-based choices for your long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Barefoot Shoes

How do barefoot shoes contribute to knee pain prevention according to biomechanical research?

Studies in biomechanics suggest that barefoot shoes promote natural gait patterns, reducing impact forces on knee joints. Research published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research (2025) indicates a 12-18% reduction in patellofemoral stress when utilizing minimalist footwear compared to traditional cushioned options.

What features should I prioritize in optimal barefoot shoes for knee health?

Leading podiatrists recommend barefoot shoes with zero-drop soles, wide toe boxes, and flexible materials. A meta-analysis in Sports Medicine (2025) highlights that these design features enhance proprioception and evenly distribute weight across the foot, benefiting knee alignment and overall joint health.

Are there clinical trials demonstrating that barefoot shoes reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis?

The NIH-funded LOOK trial (2025) revealed that participants using barefoot shoes for six months exhibited significant improvements in WOMAC knee pain scores. MRI scans indicated reduced markers of cartilage degeneration in the intervention group compared to conventional shoe wearers.

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