General Cycling Discussion - foot neuroma

I had a foot neuroma (http://www.google.com/search?source=ig&hl=en&rlz=&q=neuroma+foot&btnG=Google+Search) several years ago. I didn't have it surgically removed, because the other nerves can end up swelling or having problems. People end up having multiple surgeries.

Generally after a day of an hour or more of heavy activity, I put ice on the foot. That keeps it comfortable.

I am getting into biking, and am doing 6-15 miles per day. I think that 20 per day is within reach. But I think my foot is a little uncomfortable.

Do any of you have this problem? What have you discovered that alleviates it? I am wearing simple running-style athletic shoes, with toe clips.

Wow, that sounds awful! I don't have that problem, but I can help recommend some shoes. The best shoe for biking is a shoe with a very, very stiff sole. Clipless pedals and shoes are a good option because they'll force you to have your foot in an ergonomic position while you ride. I would recommend going to an LBS with your bike and having them fit you with some shoes and pedals so that your foot is pushing on the pedal in the right spot. If you don't want to go clipless, then maybe look into some freeriding shoes or track shoes.

Good luck!

Thanks for the ideas!

I don't know whether a stiff shoe would help or exacerbate a foot neuroma. I suppose only an experiment will yield the truth of the matter.

I mean, I'm not a doctor, so I really don't have a clue, but it seems to me that having a stiffer sole would distribute the pressure from the pedal more evenly across your foot, which might be good? I dunno..

Yes, it might. Or it might prevent the little swollen bit of nerve sheath from being able to wiggle as it might like. Who can say? I guess I'll have to experiment. Thanks! :)

Have you seen a podiatrist? I have the same condition except mine doesn't sound as bad as yours. I was prescribed a metatarsal insole to keep the pressure off of the nerves. It puts the pressure further back on the foot instead. My foot shape tends to put a lot of pressure on the outer toes. I also used to walk around a lot barefoot on concrete, hardwood floors, and tile floors and this caused (or helped cause) mine.

Get to a podiatrist.

I've got a Morton's neuroma, which an enlarged nerve that usually occurs in the third interspace, which is between the third and fourth toes. I got fitted for an orthodic that has a pad that basically pushes the interspace apart, thus alleviating the pressure on the nerve.

I don't ride with my orthodic, but do wear cycling shoes with a very wide front, so the pressure isn't too bad, even for century rides. The stiff sole on a cycling shoe will be more comfortable and your feet will not fatigue like with a running shoe, which is built to pad and flex.

Makes sure your everyday shoes are not pinching your forefoot. Tight shoes are a killer for a neuroma.

And get to a podiatrist!

I don't ride with my orthodic, but do wear cycling shoes with a very wide front

Ah, I see! Okay. I have an orthotic just like yours, pushing a bit to give a little more room there. So you find you're okay with a wide stiff cycling shoe. Interesting. Thanks!