Cycling is a low-impact exercise that provides minimal stress on your joints as you enjoy the benefits of a complete cardiovascular workout. However, cycling long distance can take a toll on your feet. As a result, you might experience numbness in the balls of your feet as well as in your toe.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a benign tumor of the nerves in the balls of your feet. A thickening of the tissue around the nerves can lead to irritation and inflammation of the nerves in your feet. Cycling for long distances can place excessive pressure on your feet, which can cause a thickening of tissue. Morton's neuroma can lead to pain, burning and numbness in the balls of your feet. This pain is also likely to radiate to your toes, causing numbness in your toes. The pain and discomfort of Morton's neuroma is most prevalent after participation in cycling and in other forms of physical activity. The pain normally subsides with rest. Changes in footwear, orthotics and injections are the common treatment methods for Morton's neuroma. Surgery is rarely required.
Metatarsalgia
The American College of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics and Medicine makes it clear that metatarsalgia is not an actual injury. This condition is group of symptoms caused by excessive pressure placed on the balls of your feet. Metatarsalgia can include pain, numbness, bruising and inflammation of the balls of your feet. Symptoms tend to be localized to the balls of your feet and tend to intensify upon participation in physical activity. Metatarsalgia can be intensified by being overweight, wearing poor fitting shoes, having a bunion, having arthritis or being diagnosed with a stress fracture. Metatarsalgia can be treated conservatively with rest, ice and activity modification. If an underlying reason is causing this condition, treating this condition can provide relief.
Cycling Shoes
Investing in a good pair of cycling shoes can help reduce your chances of developing conditions that cause numbness in the balls of your feet and in your big toes. Your cycling shoes should have a stable shank. This will help to transfer power from your foot to the pedals of your bicycle. Shoes that are not supportive as you cycle can cause the arch of your foot to collapse while pedaling. This can lead to pain, tendon problems and burning on the bottoms of your feet. If you have a pre-existing foot condition, talk to your doctor about orthotics. Orthotics can help alleviate pressure on your foot and accommodate any possible foot deformities including bunions and hammertoes. You should also select a cycling shoe specific to the type of cycling you engage in. Models are made for racing, mountain biking and for casual cyclists.
Biomechanics
Proper biomechanics are important in preventing problems with your feet as you cycle. Your bicycle should be adjusted so that your handle bars, band, shoulders and the front axle of your bike create a straight line. The seat should be adjusted so that you knees are slightly flexed and your hips are positioned over your knees. Prior to cycling long distances, podiatrists recommend stretching the gluteals, calves, quadriceps and hamstrings in order to reduce your risk of pain or injury. If numbness in your feet and big toe persist, see a doctor.
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