The Barefoot Alter-knee-tive

I'm pulling out all the stops in trying to efficiently recover my knee, so I've taken the plunge and gone "barefoot" with the Vibram KSOs. The theory behind these weird foot gloves is that the heavily cushioned sneakers we wear now alter the natural mechanics of running. Man did not come out of the womb, after all, with running shoes on. These Vibrams get you close to the natural barefoot style of running and walking and is supposed to strengthen the muscles in our feet and legs. Yes, please!

Well, anything that helps to strengthen my lower body is great with me.  I know runners have to take it slow getting used to the Vibrams and there's a lot of initial calf and foot pain, however, since I'm not allowed to run until about week 16 or so (but it's not like I'm a big runner anyway), I'll just wear my KSOs while doing Physical Therapy, Pilates, and working out in the gym. There's a lot literature out there on the "barefoot" style of running and walking, so edumacate yourself. I hear nothing but raves from the people I know who have Vibrams and wear it regularly, so I'm excited to see if it makes a difference on my legs.