Expensive Trainers May Cause Injuries

A team of Australian researchers have found evidence that trainers with "air-filled" soles may increase the risk of injury associated with some sports.

The study suggests basketball players with air-filled trainers increased the risk of ankle injuries by 400%. Apart from a previous history of ankle injuries, footwear was the biggest risk factor associated with ankle injuries.

Many trainers contain padding in the heel and sole to provide cushioning when the foot impacts with the floor. Karen May, who has worked with the English Basketball Association claims "when your foot lands in a strike position, and doesn't roll in the normal way, there is more risk of injury".

"Many of the more fashionable trainers are unsuitable for some sporting activities, but often people don't know the difference".

A separate study in Australia suggested more than half the games missed by players was due to ankle injuries.

Different trainers are designed for different sports and different levels of support in different areas of the foot and leg. When buying a new pair of trainers, you should consider the activity for which they will be worn, the shape and structure of your foot, your weight and build and the way your foot strikes the floor during activity.

For more information on the shape of your feet and choosing the right trainers, visit http://www.runnersworld.com

Friday, 30 March 2001