Clenching my toes

[blackhillsbiker]

My shoes fit very well. I had to fit my right foot, as it is the larger one. Because of bunions, I'm careful not to get shoes that are too small, or not roomy enough through the forefoot. Today I took the advice above and concentrated on keeping my heels down and wiggling my toes. I also noticed that my right leg works harder than my left when I ride. I tried to work harder with my left. That seemed to help a lot. I think it's just something I'm going to have to stay aware of. Also, curiously, stretching my legs/hamstrings well before the ride seemed to help. We rode the Spearfish Canyon (gorgeous!), and I didn't end up as sore as usual. My foot feels pretty good tonight.

Deb

[nscrbug]

Interesting topic...as I think I also do the "toe clenching" thing on the bike, as well as during my runs. I have been dealing with some major foot pain lately, and I think the toe-clenching might be adding to or even causing some of the problems. On nearly every ride, I get some degree of toe-numbing in my right foot only. Sometimes, it comes on rather quickly (within the first 20 miles)...and other times, it doesn't strike until well into the ride (past 50 miles). I have been fitted to my bike (a Cervelo S2 road bike), I wear Northwave cycling shoes which have a very wide toe box, I'm using a large platform pedal (Time RXS), my cleats are positioned correctly, and I always wear Smartwool cycling socks when I ride. So, from my perspective...I seem to be doing everything "right"...yet still suffer with this toe pain/numbness to some extent on every ride. It's very frustrating, and can often turn what should be a great and enjoyable ride...into sheer misery. Same goes for running...I start out fine, but by the first mile...the pain and numbness kick in with a vengeance. I've been fitted for my running shoes in addition to having my running gait analyzed, but the problem persists. I should note, that on BOTH of my feet...my 4th toes underlap and curve inward to my 3rd toes. I suspect that this may be contributing to some of my pain, but I'm not 100% certain. I have also thought that maybe it could be a neuroma, but I don't display all of the classic symptoms...so again, I'm not sure. Anybody have any insight or advice they'd be willing to share? Thanks!