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08-07-04, 03:39 PM
I didn't bother searching cuz I think I have a unique problem. Hopefully not so unique that I'm screwed. So, please offer opinions...
I started with SPDs, but switched to Look thinking that the bigger surface area would relieve the burning, numbness and cramping, especially on extended climbs. And they did... while I still get discomfort, it's a significant improvement.
Now my right knee -- injured ~5 yrs ago -- is bothering me during and after each ride longer than ~40 miles. This is more noticeable (obviously) when I'm not taking ibuprofen. I've read/heard that more float (eg. Frogs) are better for knees.
(here's the potentially unique part) my SPDs had a fair amount of float and I did experience less knee issues with them, BUT i popped my knee with 'em twice! What I mean by "pop" is it seems that if the bones above and below my knee don't line up just right, that the knee cap gets twisted up and "pops" back into place during the rotation. It happens when I hike too, tho trekking poles have really helped... I simply never take a "rest step" while hiking. Ugh.
The potentially unique issue is, I absolutely believe that the extra float allowed my bones to get twisted and then pop my knee.
I've become more conscious of my rotation and I'm trying to develop a better stroke, but it only takes one moment of distraction during a multiple hour ride for this to potentially happen. I simply cannot maintain that focus 100% of the time on every ride.
I can't afford to see a doctor, my medical plan is very limited and the economy kicked me in the 'nads. I did see a doctor years ago when I originally got injured.
So, my questions...
1. Have you heard of extra float being a problem before? (I feel more confident with less float, I think).
2. Is there a pedal I should try?
3. Is there someway to make my stroke better and more consistent?
As for the rest of my bike, while I've made the adjustments myself, I feel I've gotten as good a fit as I can without spending the money I don't have on a pro-fitting. I'm fairly comfortable even after four or five hours.
Thanks in advance!
I started with SPDs, but switched to Look thinking that the bigger surface area would relieve the burning, numbness and cramping, especially on extended climbs. And they did... while I still get discomfort, it's a significant improvement.
Now my right knee -- injured ~5 yrs ago -- is bothering me during and after each ride longer than ~40 miles. This is more noticeable (obviously) when I'm not taking ibuprofen. I've read/heard that more float (eg. Frogs) are better for knees.
(here's the potentially unique part) my SPDs had a fair amount of float and I did experience less knee issues with them, BUT i popped my knee with 'em twice! What I mean by "pop" is it seems that if the bones above and below my knee don't line up just right, that the knee cap gets twisted up and "pops" back into place during the rotation. It happens when I hike too, tho trekking poles have really helped... I simply never take a "rest step" while hiking. Ugh.
The potentially unique issue is, I absolutely believe that the extra float allowed my bones to get twisted and then pop my knee.
I've become more conscious of my rotation and I'm trying to develop a better stroke, but it only takes one moment of distraction during a multiple hour ride for this to potentially happen. I simply cannot maintain that focus 100% of the time on every ride.
I can't afford to see a doctor, my medical plan is very limited and the economy kicked me in the 'nads. I did see a doctor years ago when I originally got injured.
So, my questions...
1. Have you heard of extra float being a problem before? (I feel more confident with less float, I think).
2. Is there a pedal I should try?
3. Is there someway to make my stroke better and more consistent?
As for the rest of my bike, while I've made the adjustments myself, I feel I've gotten as good a fit as I can without spending the money I don't have on a pro-fitting. I'm fairly comfortable even after four or five hours.
Thanks in advance!