[The running shoe--a means of preventing running complaints].

One possible means of influencing and reducing the load on the human locomotive apparatus is the running shoe. Taking this as an example it can be shown how strategies for achieving this goal can be selected. The running shoe has three important characteristics: cushioning, support, and guidance. To achieve ideal cushioning, it is important to consider not so much the material of the inner sole, but rather the geometry of the shoe sole and the entire shoe. An analogous commentary may be made as regards support. By modifying the heel part of the shoe to approximate the human heel, pronation movement can be reduced. Lateral supports in the forefoot make it possible to control the propulsive movement (guidance). Consistent application of these considerations should bring about a reduction in the load on the locomotor apparatus and thus help prevent overstrain phenomena.