If the shoe fits should you just wear it? A complete calcaneal stress fracture in a female recreational runner

Abstract

Shoe choice by runners may follow trends related to purported generalised benefits rather than following an individual risk-benefit analysis. The benefits and risks related to minimalist footwear for running has been a much debated topic. The authors report a case of a complete calcaneal stress fracture in an otherwise healthy female recreational runner in the first three weeks following her conversion from a traditional cushioned running shoe to a minimalist type of running shoe. Clinicians should be aware of the potential added bone stress with reduced cushioning and the potential risks in transitioning to new footwear.