Chronic Injuries
Chronic pain from heel spurs and plantar fasciitis can be aggravated by the force you put on the pedals. Take care to attend to and monitor these injuries to prevent increased pain caused by cycling.
Shoes
Cycling with regular athletic shoes can cause foot pain because the sole flexes too much with each pedal stroke. The stiff sole of a cycling shoe evenly disperses the pressure on your feet.
Cleat Position
Some cycling shoes allow you to adjust the placement of your cleat. For most riders, positioning the cleat so it falls in line with the ball of your foot feels most comfortable.
Insoles
Use insoles to support your feet and help prevent injuries. Look for insoles made specifically for cycling. They provide the right amount of support for riding and fit better in a cycling shoe.
Stretching and Ice
Ice and stretch painful feet. Roll your foot over a frozen water bottle, pushing down with your foot to stretch your muscles and fascia while decreasing inflammation with the ice.
Article Written By Kathrine Cole
Kathrine Cole is a professional outdoor educator. She teaches rock climbing, backpacking, cycling, and bike maintenance classes. She is a graduate of the National Outdoor Leadership School, a Wilderness First Responder, and a Leave No Trace Trainer.
