Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Biking and Your Feet - What To Know.

Many of our patients tell us they have decided to take up biking because it is a safer exercise than say running or playing tennis. While this may be true for those beginning a work-out regimen, suffering knee issues or even those recovering from back or shoulder surgery, biking is still a vigorous activity that should only be done with proper form and proper equipment- including shoes!

You may wonder what your shoes have to do with riding a bike, but consider this- Your feet are responsible for the transfer of energy from the body to the pedals, which makes the bicycle move. When choosing a shoe look for a stiff sole and a snug fit around the bridge of the foot and heel. The more stable and less movement inside the shoe, the more power can be transferred through the entire foot to the pedal. Usually properly fitted cross-training or running shoes are suitable for the casual biker.

Lack of proper body alignment and overactivity are responsible for the most common foot problems related to biking: Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, shin splints and foot numbness or pain. If your feet are at all uncomfortable while riding or throughout the day- visit us! 

Looking for fellow Cyclists in Charleston? Visit Coastal Cyclists. 

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