Neuroma problems and clipless

[Lise]

I don't have a diagnosis yet, but saw my doc who referred me to a podiatrist (note to self: make the appointment!) My two middle toes left foot go numb when running or cycling. Pain on the top of the foot unless my shoes are laced very loosely. This is also the foot with a big bunion, which is currently hurting pretty much. Think I can just screw this foot off and get a new one attached? I keep trying to tell it to act more like its sister, the right foot, but it's belligerantly defiant on this point. I'll follow this thread, since I'm really unlikely to put up with surgery. I work on my feet, and have never been willing to take the time off needed just for foot surgery. Certainly not when it's finally decent weather out.

[bike4ever]

I was living in Pittsburgh at the time my foot was being a big pain. I just did it during the winter. I actually had the neuroma surgery in December with double bunion on the same foot in February.

I also work on my feet since I am in the bike industry. One day my podiatrist saw me riding down the street with my big, black boot on my foot - he kind of freaked out. I just changed my pedals from clipless to a larger, bmx style platform pedal.

[Lise]

Ha! That's a great image. I can just see me with one big flat pedal and one clipped in. Encouraging to hear that you work on your feet. I need to be able to walk pretty fast from one place to another in the hospital if a patient's going to deliver...but maybe I can do it with a big boot on. And a big plastic shoe cover over it for deliveries. You give me hope. Maybe this winter. I'd hate to lose that time from running (is that seriously me saying that? I have changed so much), but it would be worth it to not have the bunion pain and numb toes. L.

[bike4ever]

Lise -

I'm 4 plus years past surgery. It is so nice not to wake up with a painful foot. Technically I was young to have the surgery (37 at the time), but it was so worth it. Good luck - if you choose surgery, do it in the off season.

[pipergirl]

Wow, its nice? to know others out there have the same problem. Mine really starts hurting badly by the time I ridden around 35. Since I'm dealing with PF right now, which doesn't bother my biking but is what took me off the roads running,I was sooo pissed about the neuroma problem! I have learned to love the biking but it takes so long to get a decent workout. However, spinning definitely keep me sane. Since I'm only working 20 hour weeks right now, I can go for longer rides ...over 35. I wish the neuroma only caused numbness but it becomes so painful! I am considering the surgery...we'll see. My PT also says that most folks get the neuroma in the first place because of pronation problems...I'd have to agree with that. My left foot pronates badly. I did have a casting for new orthotics. My old ones don't seem to address the forefoot issue very well. I am having my bike shoes worked on. I will probably go clipless soon. Thanks for any and all advice about that. Large platform, definitely.