It is an undeniable fact that you will need a comfortable saddle and handlebars to enjoy a smooth and comfortable cycling experience. But we often forget about the pedal-foot interface. It is the pedal-foot interface that is the primary site for that all-important energy transfer from you to your bike.
Most studies are primarily focused on cycling injuries of the neck, arms, perineum, gluteal, and knees. These injuries are all related to saddle and handlebar setup and design. Yet, there are rarely any comprehensive scientific studies that provide information on foot injuries for cyclists.
Recently, a study has been carried out to identify the various types of foot injuries suffered by cyclists and how frequent it affects cyclists.
So here are the common question researcher tried to answer about foot injuries confronted by cyclists;
1. How much distance did the cyclist cover who experienced foot pain?
2. What is the classification of foot pain and which regions of the foot do the cyclists experience pain the most?
3. Are there any particular groups of cyclists who are more vulnerable to foot injuries than others?
Image via : Financial Times
The Findings
1. Firstly, scientists found out that more than half (53.9) of cyclists experience foot pain while riding. Secondly, 61 percent of the foot pain comes from the forefoot region, resulting in the area most prone to pain.
2. Cyclists also explained that the pain feels like a ‘numbness’ or ‘a burning sensation’.
3. Besides that, cyclists above 26 years of age are more likely to have foot pain than riders who are under 26 years.
The Solutions
1. Having a proper bike fit is crucial, it will help to adjust the cleat position-fore-aft, inter-pedal width, and cleat lateral-medial rotation.
2. Purchasing a good pair of cleats with a greater degree of float.
Also another cause of foot pain in cycling which might not be due to the use of cleats, it could be due to an anatomical difference in foot structure or muscular imbalance.
Muscle Imbalances
It is defined as the weakness and tightness in the gastroc-soleus complex, quadriceps/hamstrings, or even the hip muscles.
To avoid foot pain, you can get prescribed customized slim fit insoles that fit into your cycling shoes. These insoles will assist in correcting any lower limb biomechanical misalignment during cycling, it helps to redistribute pressures on the feet.
Image via : JustRunLah
Foot Structure
Foot structure is defined as the foot shape or arch type. A high arch can put extra pressure on the metatarsals. While having a second toe that’s longer than the big toe can cause more weight to be shifted to the second metatarsal head.
This research gives us a preliminary insight to show how common foot injury and pain is among cyclists.
Thus, to stay pain-free during cycling, it suggests that the design of cycling shoes is just as important as the saddle and handlebar of the bikes.
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