Foot numbness - need advice

[mudgirl]

For years been struggling with foot numbness. Especially bad during long road rides. Not so bad on mtb rides. Also have mild case of Raynaud's disease. Switched to a wider shoe, (Shimano to Specialized Body Geometry), after a fit got new saddle, peddles, stem. These helped a little. Thinking the stiffness of a carbon sole might help also. It's been suggested I get expensive insoles but am skeptical. Been advised to keep core warmer. That's not helping.

I'm a woman with small feet (38 or 39). Wide with a high arch.

Anyone have some insight on numbness?

Any recommendations on a wide mtb shoe? Most brands offer wides only in the large sizes. Specialized Body Geometry fit well but still getting numbness from strap tightness on top of arch. Shoes are loose unless these straps are pretty tight. Got some relief from removing the BG shims. Thanks for any help! Winona

 

[SpiTimeCannon]

Try using foot cream, especially if you wear synthetic socks. I find that the sock tends to stick to the foot causing tension.

 

[sandmonstersandy]

have you tried getting a proper bike fit that looks at cleat fore-aft/ saddle height/ pedalling technique?

 

[mrmoore]

Here are some options

I have battled this for a couple of years after riding in 100+ F weather.

1. Move cleats as far back as possible.
2. Get an orthotic insert or an off-the-shelf one that has a bump near the toes.
3. Get custom fitted for your shoes. d2shoe.com is very good, pricey, but good.
4. Get an expert bike fit, not just joe from the LBS.
5. See a podiatrist expert in sports medicine. Sometimes a cortisone shot can help.
6. Massage and ice your feet after every ride.

If those don't help, perhaps swimming might be next.

mrmoore

 

[2beeDammed]

I found for me it was simply a matter of doing the shoes up to tight. Leaving them loose when i put them on allows for them to swell and not create any numbness.

 

[durianrider]

*Get some b12 shots. Many say they improve their RS symptoms.

*I ride midfoot cleat position. No more foot problems for me during long and or hot rides.