I have very high arches which means that I only bear weight on a few places. I have tried orthotics but it was a very expensive failure. I've calluses due to this and sometimes long rides are just painful.

I have found a good measure of relief when I moved to Frogs - not because of the cleats/pedals but because I purchased a new pair of bike shoes. My Mavics (mtb) shoes have a good foot-bed, and I barely engage the straps so there is room for my feet to swell. This has taken care of almost all of my hot spot and foot numbness problem. Occasionally it does still happen and I simply stop for a couple of minutes. This normally provides just enough relief that the discomfort leaves.

Yes I do need to break down and try orthotics again...probably in the spring. It was SO expensive last time for so small a benefit that I am leery...but I need to eventually do something. I've been given the name of someone who is quite skilled at making them for cyclists, and I've had my initial visit, it is just hard to pull that trigger.

So the point of all this is to make certain your shoes fit properly, that they aren't too tight when your feet swell and they provide proper support and stiffness. Even when there are other problems like mine, it does make a difference.