I’ve been running barefoot or in Vibram Five Fingers for about 9 months now. One of the most interesting things to me has been the changes I’ve felt and seen in my feet, ankles, and calves. I really wish I had taken some photos and measurements before I started so I’d have hard evidence of the changes.
Some of the changes include significant definition in my lower calves, longer and straighter toes, and more “solid” (for lack of a better word) ankles. As a result of these changes, none of my regular shoes fit me anymore. They are all to small.
But there was something that I hadn’t noticed. The other day I was at home, barefooted. I started to walk up the stairs and happened to look down at my feet. I was surprised to see that when I put weight on my forefoot my second and third toes separate. This was not the case before I started BF running. Here is a photo:
This is kind of interesting. I’m guessing its a result of my toes getting into the running and walking action like never before. But it got me thinking. It reminded me of something else. What do you think?
Am I a Vulcan?
Downtown Runner
(Live Long and Prosper)
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
That’s wild! Very cool. Hopefully my feet will start to do the same.
I’ve noticed that my foot spreads out quite a bit when I plant my weight on my forefoot. I don’t have the toe separation like you have, but I certainly have a lot more strength and ability to spread them out like I never had before.
Dave:
Maybe you’re a Klingon!
Crap, does the mean we have to be enemies now? I was just starting to like you.
wohoa that’s crazy! I am still wanting to transition to barefoot, but darn it women are apparently only made with small feet so people don’t care my tall girl shoe size!
I am SO relieved to see your toes….which look exactly like mine! This started happening to both my feet about a month ago and I am so freaked out about it. I practice yoga regularly and can only think this is yoga related but my teachers have never seen anything like it. I also have MS and started to worry that something new was happening to me and my neurologist just looked at me funny but had no explanation. I describe it exactly as you do….Vulcun toes! thanks for helping feel normal, whatever that means.
@Kay: I’m glad my toes were helpful!! LOL Thanks for stopping by.
Hi!
I am hardly a runner, but I do go barefoot a lot. My toes are just like yours (maybe a little less hairy), and I would love to know why! It’s only on my right foot, and has been progressively getting more Vulcanish over the past year. I also have a good bit of pain in the ball of my foot….wondering if you do too?
I also think I may have an earwig living in my left ear. Just kidding about that.
I have the same thing. It just started about a year ago. I also notice a deep calas type lump on the ball of each foot which seems to be painful at times, especially with bare feet. Wish I could find the answer online. I guess I’ll be making a trip to the foot Dr.
You should totally use that picture as your icon.
I have noticed my feet spreading out as well. Most of my shoes are now too tight. I’ll have to watch and see what my toes decide to do.
Aaron,
That’s a great idea. I’ve been thinking about changing my icon in a few places. Thanks!
Bob