Toes numb while cycling

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2016-01-03 6:30 PM


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Subject: Toes numb while cycling
Anyone dealt with numbness in the toes after cycling for a half hour to 45 mins? I thought it could be small shoes, so I purchased some larger ones and still had it happen today. The bike was fitted for me so I'm pretty sure it's not that. Suggestions are appreciated.

2016-01-03 6:50 PM
in reply to: linkslefty

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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
What's the temperature? Could it be from cold?
2016-01-03 7:05 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
I'm on the indoor trainer....
2016-01-03 7:21 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling

Originally posted by linkslefty Anyone dealt with numbness in the toes after cycling for a half hour to 45 mins? I thought it could be small shoes, so I purchased some larger ones and still had it happen today. The bike was fitted for me so I'm pretty sure it's not that. Suggestions are appreciated.

 

slide your cleat back. You're pinching vessels with the pressure on the ball of your foot.



Edited by tjfry 2016-01-03 7:21 PM
2016-01-03 7:31 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
So I want the cleat more towards the middle of my foot?
2016-01-03 8:07 PM
in reply to: linkslefty

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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling

Yes.  Also pay attention to how tight your shoes are.

2016-01-03 8:24 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
I'll give that a shot. I don't think it's a shoe tightness issue, I've got to a bigger shoe and played with strap tightness. Thanks for the feedback!
2016-01-03 8:59 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
What kind of shoes and what pedal are you using?
2016-01-03 9:13 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
I have Shimano pedals and pearl Izumi 2 bolt cleat shoes. I just previously had Shimano 2 bolt clear shoes and had the same problem.
2016-01-03 9:19 PM
in reply to: linkslefty

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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
I had this happen to me to the point where the pain was unbearable! Went to a good fitter and he noted that my fit was all off AND moved my cleats back. HUGE difference and no more foot pain - even after 7 hours training for IM! Does everything else feel good - hands numb, saddle uncomfortable? All these are signs that your fit could be readjusted. Just from my experience. But I'd start with the cleats and go from there!
2016-01-03 11:50 PM
in reply to: runspingirl

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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
Make sure your shoes also aren't too narrow. I have issues with that too. I got new shoes but they still are too narrow and will cause numbness after ~2-3 hours and then turns into really intense pain to where I need to stop. I got new shoes and heat molded them, which helped a little, but I now know I need wider bike shoes since my left foot just doesn't like normal ones.

2016-01-04 6:04 AM
in reply to: linkslefty

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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
Originally posted by linkslefty

I have Shimano pedals and pearl Izumi 2 bolt cleat shoes. I just previously had Shimano 2 bolt clear shoes and had the same problem.


This is probably the problem. 2-bolt are SPD cleats designed for MTB and although they do work for the road, they tend to cause pressure points (too small of a contact area concentrates the forces to a smaller area of your foot). I bet what you are experiencing is exactly that.

I would recommend changing to Speedplay (and don't be fooled by the small patch of the pedal, the cleat is where the contact area is on Speedplay and that's sizable), Look or Shimano SPD-SL (road pedal).
2016-01-05 3:25 PM
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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling

Originally posted by linkslefty So I want the cleat more towards the middle of my foot?

correct. i found that the best way is to tape the cleat with painter's tape or masking tape while you unscrew the bolts so the cleat doesn't move, then move it back in baby steps(remove or lift the tape when it's time to move it.). Remember that you may have to lower the seat a little if you scoot it back too far. Usually does the trick but not always.



Edited by tjfry 2016-01-05 3:26 PM
2016-01-05 5:46 PM
in reply to: tjfry

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Subject: RE: Toes numb while cycling
I know I haven't been cycling or doing tri's for decades, but is it possible to go for long rides seated in saddle, especially in aero and not have some numbness somewhere from time to time in the ride?
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