Objective: The objectives of this study were to (1) assess the perceptions of runners, footwear retailers and healthcare practitioners (HCP) on the effects of running shoes on injuries; (2) evaluate the role of an evidence-based online educational module. Methods: Using an online survey, we collected information on demographics and beliefs about injury risk and different shoe features (e.g. cushioning, drop) or selection strategies (e.g. based on foot arch). Agreement with survey items was assessed using continuous scales (0: not important/useful, 10: very important/useful). Subsequently, an optional educational module was presented after which beliefs were reassessed. We ran one-way ANOVA between subgroups and paired t-tests to analyze the effects of the module. Results: A total of 1,425 participants completed the baseline survey, of which 781 completed the educational module. Overall, footwear was perceived as important in preventing injury (7.2/10, 95% CI 7.1, 7.3). HCP perceived footwear as less important (6.3/10, 95% CI 6.1, 6.6) than runners (7.6/10, 95% CI 7.5, 7.7) and retailers (7.9/10, 95% CI 7.3, 8.5)(P<0.001); relevance of cushioning, drop and selection according to foot type were also lower in HCP than in other subgroups (P<0.001). The educational module was deemed useful (8.3/10, 95% CI 8.2, 8.5) and 58.6% of respondents said it changed their perceptions. Perceived importance of footwear in preventing injuries decreased after the module (-1.0/10, 95% CI -0.9, -1.2; P<0.001). Conclusion: Running footwear is perceived as important in the prevention of running injuries; an evidence-based module can aid in educating individuals on the literature surrounding footwear allowing informed recommendations/choices. Clinical implications: This online module can effectively be used to educate runners, retailers and HCP about the scientific research on running footwear and injuries. This could potentially translate into reduced injury rates among runners.
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