Knee Pain Prevention Tips with Barefoot Shoes: Science-Backed Insights

With knee pain impacting millions globally, the rise in popularity of barefoot shoes can be attributed to their potential in alleviating pressure on joints. A pioneering study conducted in 2025 demonstrates that these minimalist footwear designs foster natural foot movement, promoting enhanced body alignment and significantly reducing stress on the knees. Research suggests that switching to barefoot shoes can notably lower injury risks often associated with standard cushioned footwear, which may alter your gait. Nevertheless, transitioning to barefoot shoes should be approached with caution, as a rapid change can result in discomfort. If you are considering barefoot shoes, consulting with a specialist is advisable to ensure they align with your unique biomechanics. While scientific findings show various beneficial outcomes, the ultimate effectiveness of these shoes is contingent on your individual needs.

Understanding Knee Pain: Causes and Solutions

The knee is a multifaceted joint that supports a considerable portion of your body weight, making it particularly vulnerable to injuries and wear over time. Knee pain can stem from numerous factors such as overuse, improper biomechanics, or pre-existing conditions like arthritis. Gaining insight into the underlying causes of your knee pain allows you to take proactive steps, including selecting supportive footwear, to protect your joints and maintain optimal mobility. By recognizing these factors, you can better equip yourself to make informed decisions that contribute to long-term joint health.

Unpacking the Anatomy of the Knee Joint

Examining the knee joint reveals a complex structure composed of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons that work together intricately. The femur, tibia, and patella constitute the joint framework, while the menisci serve as effective shock absorbers. Damage to any of these components can disrupt regular movement patterns, resulting in considerable discomfort and reduced functionality. Understanding this anatomy is crucial for appreciating how different factors, including footwear, can influence knee health.

Recognizing the Common Causes of Knee Pain

A significant percentage of individuals experience knee pain primarily due to osteoarthritis, ligament tears, or repetitive stress injuries. Other contributing factors may include poor alignment, muscle imbalances, and sudden injuries. Identifying the root cause is vital for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. As people age or partake in high-impact activities such as running, the likelihood of experiencing knee pain may increase. Additionally, excess weight can place additional strain on the knees, while weak quadriceps or hamstrings may lack the necessary support and stability. Addressing these concerns early can greatly diminish the risk of long-term damage.

Impact of Footwear on Your Knee Health

The type of footwear you choose plays a pivotal role in how much stress is placed on your knees, along with your activity levels and posture. Traditional cushioned shoes can disrupt your natural gait, while barefoot shoes are specifically designed to encourage more natural movements, potentially alleviating joint strain. Making even minor adjustments to your footwear can lead to substantial benefits. For example, wearing high heels can increase knee pressure by around 23%, whereas minimalist shoes promote better alignment and distribute weight more evenly, which may help in relieving discomfort.

Investigating the Scientific Basis for Footwear Selection

Recent studies have shown that your footwear choices can profoundly affect your knee health. Investigations in biomechanics reveal that conventional shoes often disrupt your natural gait, while barefoot shoes promote proper alignment and help reduce joint strain. Research indicates that minimalist footwear may lower impact forces on the knees by encouraging a forefoot strike, potentially aiding in the prevention of long-term damage. Understanding these scientific insights empowers you to make educated choices regarding your joint health.

Understanding the Negative Effects of Traditional Shoe Designs

Analyzing traditional footwear unveils that conventional shoes designed with elevated heels and cushioned soles can interfere with your natural foot mechanics. Such designs shift your weight forward, thereby increasing pressure on the knees and altering your posture. Over time, these changes can culminate in chronic pain or injuries, as the joints compensate for the absence of natural movement. Recognizing these adverse effects emphasizes the importance of selecting footwear that supports your body’s natural mechanics.

The Rising Popularity of Minimalist and Barefoot Shoe Designs

In this context, minimalist and barefoot shoes have gained traction for their ability to replicate natural foot functionality. With their thin soles and zero-drop design, these shoes stimulate stronger foot muscles and enhance proprioception, which may significantly reduce knee strain during physical activities. Further research underscores the potential for these shoes to improve gait efficiency. A notable study conducted in 2024 revealed that participants who wore barefoot shoes experienced a remarkable 15% reduction in knee load compared to those wearing traditional footwear, indicating potential long-term benefits for joint health.

Evaluating the Claims Regarding the Benefits of Barefoot Shoes

The ongoing discourse concerning barefoot shoes often highlights their ability to prevent knee pain. While some studies suggest a reduction in joint stress, others caution that an abrupt shift can lead to overuse injuries. It is imperative to evaluate your biomechanics and make gradual adjustments when transitioning to these types of shoes. 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 you choose footwear that aligns with your specific needs, thereby minimizing risks while maximizing potential benefits.

How Your Choice of Footwear Influences Knee Health

A multitude of studies indicates that traditional shoes featuring thick soles and arch support can disrupt your natural gait, leading to increased stress on your knees. Barefoot shoes, designed to replicate the sensation of walking barefoot, promote a more neutral foot strike and can significantly reduce joint strain. Research suggests that this may lower your risk of knee pain by fostering better alignment and enhancing muscle engagement. Selecting footwear that accommodates natural movement is crucial for maintaining long-term knee health.

The Impact of Heel Elevation on Joint Loading

It’s significant to note that approximately 60-75% of conventional shoes come with raised heels, which shifts your weight forward and elevates pressure on your knee joints. This unnatural incline can lead to overpronation and uneven load distribution, further increasing the risk of injuries. In contrast, barefoot shoes eliminate heel elevation, assisting you in maintaining balanced posture and reducing strain on your knees during movement.

The Role of Cushioning in Knee Impact

While heel cushioning in traditional shoes may muffle immediate impact, it can also compromise your foot’s natural shock-absorbing abilities. Over time, reliance on artificial cushioning may contribute to joint degeneration by altering your stride and reducing muscle activation. Barefoot shoes encourage your body to absorb impact naturally, strengthening the muscles and tendons in the process. Footwear with excessive cushioning can interfere with proprioception—the body’s ability to sense ground contact—leading to heavier heel strikes that increase stress on the knees. Studies have shown that highly cushioned shoes generate higher peak forces on joints compared to minimalist designs. Gradually transitioning to barefoot shoes can aid in retraining your gait for enhanced knee protection.

Biomechanical Changes from Footwear Choices

Wearing traditional shoes typically results in a shorter stride, with your foot striking the ground with greater force, ultimately amplifying knee load. Conversely, barefoot shoes encourage a forefoot or midfoot strike, reducing abrupt forces applied to your joints. This biomechanical change can enhance balance and lower the risk of injuries by aligning your lower body more naturally. Consequently, prolonged use of stiff, supportive shoes may weaken intrinsic foot muscles, leading to increased knee instability. Barefoot shoes help restore natural foot mobility, improving shock absorption and reducing reliance on the knees for stability. For those with pre-existing knee issues, a gradual transition is recommended to avoid overloading underutilized muscles.

Exploring the Biomechanics of Barefoot Shoes in Alleviating Knee Pain

When switching to barefoot shoes, your gait instinctively adjusts to a forefoot or midfoot strike, significantly reducing impact forces on the knees. This alteration in biomechanics promotes better alignment, alleviating stress on your patellofemoral joint and enhancing shock absorption. Research suggests that minimalist footwear can decrease knee joint loading by up to 12%, positioning them as a valuable asset for pain prevention.

Clinical Research Supporting the Use of Barefoot Shoes for Pain Relief

In addition to anecdotal evidence, clinical studies have demonstrated that barefoot shoes can reduce knee pain by facilitating a more natural stride. A meta-analysis conducted in 2024 reported that individuals wearing minimalist footwear experienced an impressive 30% reduction in knee discomfort compared to those in traditional shoes, likely attributed to improved proprioception and decreased heel-strike forces.

The Effect of Minimalist Footwear on Gait Mechanics

By encouraging a shorter stride and a quicker cadence, barefoot shoes promote a lighter landing that minimizes knee strain. This adjustment in gait redistributes pressure away from the joints, potentially helping to avert overuse injuries. Due to the absence of cushioning, your body adapts more quickly to a more efficient running style. However, transitioning too rapidly can raise injury risk, making gradual adaptation essential for optimal outcomes.

Neuromuscular Adaptations Linked to Barefoot Running

For optimal knee health, barefoot running strengthens the muscles in your feet and lower legs, enhancing stability. These neuromuscular changes improve joint control, thereby reducing uneven loads that can lead to pain. Training in barefoot shoes activates the smaller stabilizer muscles often neglected while wearing cushioned footwear, but improper form can lead to Achilles or plantar fascia strain. It’s imperative to monitor your body’s response to avoid overloading your tissues.

Recommended Barefoot Shoe Models for Knee Pain Prevention

If you are on the lookout for barefoot shoes to enhance your knee health, consider models such as Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III, Xero Prio, and Vibram FiveFingers. These options provide minimal cushioning and feature a wide toe box, promoting natural foot movement while alleviating joint strain. Research indicates that such designs can improve alignment and distribute pressure evenly, thereby potentially relieving knee pain. Always ensure that the fit corresponds to your foot shape to maximize benefits.

Leading Brands in the Barefoot Shoe Market

Brands such as Vivobarefoot, Xero Shoes, and Vibram are pioneering the barefoot shoe market. Vivobarefoot emphasizes sustainability, Xero focuses on flexibility, and Vibram offers toe-separated designs. Each brand caters to unique preferences, yet all prioritize zero-drop soles and ground feedback, which can help prevent knee pain by promoting proper gait mechanics.

In-Depth Review of the Xero Prio Model

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

Exploring the Advantages of the Vivobarefoot HFS Model

Selecting the Vivobarefoot HFS offers a breathable mesh upper and an ultra-thin sole, making it perfect for active lifestyles. Its anatomical shape supports natural toe splay, which can bolster balance and reduce knee strain over time. Shoe experts highlight the HFS’s durability and versatility, although they note that its lack of arch support may present a challenge for new users. Gradually increasing wear time can help prevent overuse injuries while still reaping its knee-friendly benefits.

Strategies for Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes Effectively

To ensure a smooth transition to barefoot shoes, start by wearing them for brief periods each day, allowing your feet and knees to adjust to the new design. Gradually increase your wearing time over the weeks to prevent overloading your muscles and joints. Complementing this transition with foot-strengthening exercises can enhance stability and further alleviate knee strain.

The Importance of a Gradual Transition to Prevent Injury

To avoid injury, it’s essential to give your body ample time to adjust to the minimal support provided by barefoot shoes. An abrupt change can lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or increased knee pain. Ease into the process by alternating with your regular footwear, closely monitoring your body’s responses throughout.

Identifying Potential Challenges During Transition and Finding Solutions

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

Monitoring Your Progress and Making Necessary Adjustments

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

Success Stories from Users of Barefoot Shoes

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

Case Study: From Pain to Enhanced Performance

Beyond clinical studies, personal narratives stand out. One runner plagued by 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 the journey to recovery.

Testimonials from Athletes and Casual Runners

Alongside expert insights, everyday users extol the virtues of barefoot shoes for their effectiveness in relieving knee strain. Marathon runners benefit from improved shock absorption, while casual wearers report enhanced balance and fewer aches after prolonged walking sessions. From elite athletes to office workers, feedback consistently underscores the significance of gradual adaptation. Those who attempted swift transitions often encountered overuse injuries, emphasizing the necessity for patience and proper technique.

Key Takeaways from Real-Life Experiences

While 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 critical takeaway? Listening to your body is essential to circumvent setbacks. Casual adopters stress the importance of starting slow. Rushing the adaptation process resulted in soreness, while those who paced themselves enjoyed long-term benefits. Whether you are an athlete or a casual walker, the right approach makes all the difference.

Incorporating Foot Strengthening Exercises into Your Routine

To maintain healthy knees, integrate foot-strengthening exercises into your daily routine. Research indicates that barefoot shoes facilitate natural foot movement, but combining them with targeted exercises can further alleviate knee pain by enhancing alignment and stability. Strong feet provide a robust foundation, evenly distributing impact and preventing excessive strain on your joints.

The Importance of Developing Foot Muscles

Exercises that engage your foot muscles improve proprioception and balance, thereby decreasing the likelihood of knee injuries. Weak foot muscles can lead to overpronation or inadequate gait mechanics, both of which increase stress on the knees. By strengthening these muscles, you support your entire lower body, promoting better movement patterns that contribute to overall joint health.

Recommended Exercises to Strengthen Your Feet

At home, you can perform exercises such as toe curls, marble pickups, or 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. You don’t need heavy equipment to strengthen your feet; focus on slow, controlled movements to avoid overloading your tendons. Excessive training too soon may lead to strain, so start with low intensity and gradually increase the difficulty.

Incorporating Foot Exercises into Your Daily Life

Foot exercises yield optimal results when performed consistently. Dedicate 5-10 minutes each day, ideally before or after wearing barefoot shoes, to reinforce muscle memory and adaptability. A gradual approach ensures lasting benefits. Neglecting rest days or advancing too quickly can lead to injuries. Always listen to your body and adjust the intensity based on your comfort levels.

Understanding the Impact of Footwear on Other Joints

While knee pain is a prevalent concern, the choice of footwear also affects your ankles, hips, and spine. Traditional shoes with raised heels or rigid soles can disrupt your natural gait, thereby increasing stress on these joints. In contrast, barefoot shoes support proper alignment, alleviating strain on your entire musculoskeletal system. Research suggests that minimalist footwear can lower injury risks by encouraging natural movement patterns, benefiting joints beyond just the knees.

Exploring the Link Between Feet and Hip Health

An often-overlooked aspect is the relationship between your feet and hip stability. Inadequate footwear can disrupt pelvic alignment, resulting in tight hip flexors or imbalances. Barefoot shoes strengthen intrinsic foot muscles, enhancing hip mobility and alleviating compensatory strain. Studies indicate that this can help prevent chronic conditions such as bursitis or labral tears, emphasizing the interconnectedness of joint health.

Spinal Alignment and Its Connection to Footwear Choices

On a broader scale, your choice of footwear has significant implications for spinal health. Arch support or heel elevation can shift your center of gravity, potentially leading to lumbar misalignment. Barefoot shoes promote a neutral spine, which may reduce lower back pain and enhance posture over time. Footwear with excessive cushioning or arch support can impair proprioception, disrupting your body’s natural balance. This misalignment may 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 your vertebrae.

Achieving Comprehensive Joint Health Through Thoughtful Footwear Choices

Other joints, including the shoulders and elbows, can also experience indirect benefits from minimalist footwear. By enhancing whole-body mechanics, barefoot shoes reduce compensatory movements that strain upper joints. This holistic approach prevents overuse injuries and enhances overall mobility, reinforcing the importance of considering footwear choices in joint health.

Prioritizing comprehensive joint health begins at the ground level. Opting for barefoot shoes supports optimal biomechanics, reducing wear and tear on cartilage and ligaments. Disregarding the impact of footwear on joint health can accelerate degenerative conditions like arthritis, whereas mindful choices promote long-term resilience.

Addressing Psychological Factors in the Transition to Barefoot Shoes

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

• Fear of injury stemming from reduced cushioning
• Social pressure to conform to conventional footwear standards
• Patience needed for the gradual development of foot strength

Recognizing these barriers is the first step to ensuring a successful transition.

Overcoming Mental Barriers to Embrace Change

Factors such as self-doubt or skepticism can hinder your shift to barefoot shoes. Begin by reframing discomfort as a sign of adaptation rather than failure. Educate yourself on the biomechanical benefits of barefoot shoes to bolster your commitment and confidence in making the change.

The Role of 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 notice subtle changes in your gait, ultimately reducing 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.

Building Confidence in New Footwear Through Consistent Use

In addition to physical adaptation, your trust in barefoot shoes will grow through consistent usage. Start with short walks to allow your feet to adjust, gradually increasing 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 ensures long-term success. Celebrating small victories will help maintain your motivation throughout the transition.

Dispelling Common Myths About Barefoot Running

To clarify misconceptions, barefoot running is not simply about discarding shoes—it reflects a biomechanical shift. Many believe it leads to injuries; however, research indicates that it can strengthen foot muscles and enhance gait when executed correctly. Some may consider it a fleeting trend, yet studies link it to decreased knee pain due to its promotion of natural movement. Nonetheless, neglecting proper transition can be hazardous, making gradual adaptation essential for safety.

Myth: Barefoot Shoes Are Only for Experienced Runners

An outdated notion suggests that minimalist footwear is exclusively for seasoned runners. In reality, beginners can benefit from barefoot shoes by learning correct form from the outset. The key is to start slowly—your feet require time to adapt, but age or experience should not be barriers to entry.

Myth: Minimalist Footwear Offers No Protection

The fact that barefoot shoes feature thin soles does not imply they provide no defense. Modern barefoot shoes deliver essential ground feedback while safeguarding against sharp objects. They are engineered to strike a balance between sensitivity and safety, unlike traditional shoes that dull natural reflexes. Indeed, minimalist footwear enhances proprioception, allowing you to avoid missteps. While they lack cushioning, their flexible materials help reduce joint strain by fostering midfoot strikes. However, caution is advised on rough terrains until your feet are accustomed to the new footwear.

Myth: Transitioning Is Only for Younger Athletes

Above all, age does not dictate your ability to 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 your joint health, rushing the adaptation process can lead to injury. Older individuals should focus on low-impact activities initially, such as walking, before progressing to running. Patience is essential for achieving sustainable gains without setbacks.

Addressing Commonly Asked Questions

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

Can Barefoot Shoes Worsen Knee Pain?

While there are numerous benefits, improper use of barefoot shoes can exacerbate knee pain if you transition too quickly or have pre-existing conditions. Without adequate arch support or sufficient muscle strength, your joints may experience additional stress. Consulting a specialist is advisable if you suffer from chronic pain or mobility issues.

How Long Does It Take to Adapt to Barefoot Shoes?

The adaptation process for barefoot shoes varies; most individuals require approximately 4-8 weeks to transition comfortably. Start with short wear periods and progressively increase duration to prevent strain. It’s normal for your foot muscles and gait to adjust at their own pace. Common inquiries about adaptation often focus on discomfort. While mild soreness is typical, sharp pain signals overuse. Always heed your body’s signals and scale back when necessary. Incorporating strengthening exercises can facilitate the process.

What Should I Prioritize When Selecting Barefoot Shoes?

For optimal fit, prioritize flexible soles, a wide toe box, and a zero-drop design. These features replicate natural movement and help minimize knee strain. Avoid rigid materials that may restrict foot mobility. Another crucial aspect is the terrain you’ll be engaging with. If you plan to be active on uneven surfaces, opt for minimal cushioning to protect without sacrificing ground feedback. Always test shoes indoors before committing to outdoor use.

Expert Insights on Barefoot Footwear

Many podiatrists, physical therapists, and biomechanists concur that barefoot shoes can enhance knee alignment and alleviate pain by fostering natural movement. However, they caution that an abrupt transition may heighten injury risk 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

Sports podiatrists stress that barefoot shoes can strengthen foot arches and reduce knee stress by encouraging a midfoot strike. However, they advise that individuals with pre-existing foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, should consult a specialist before switching to avoid aggravating symptoms.

Views from Physical Therapists

Physical therapists widely support barefoot shoes for 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 reveals that barefoot shoes can reduce joint impact forces by up to 12%, thereby 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 assists in preventing knee overload. However, they caution that running on hard surfaces without proper adaptation may heighten the risk of stress fractures. Footwear research confirms that minimalist designs improve balance and reduce knee torque, but biomechanists recommend combining 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 may serve as an effective solution 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 options may help mitigate discomfort and enhance mobility. If you are considering barefoot shoes, it is advisable to consult with a podiatrist or physical therapist to ensure they correspond with your biomechanics. Coupling these shoes with a gradual adaptation period and targeted exercises can optimize their benefits for your knee health. Stay informed about emerging research to make educated, evidence-based choices for your long-term well-being.

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 wearing minimalist footwear compared to traditional cushioned shoes.

What features should I look for 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.

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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