Bicycling and Foot Injuries

Bike riding is a great way to keep in shape while enjoying the outdoors. It is less stressful on your feet and joints than other types of exercise, but if you don't take precautions, it can lead to foot injuries and pain.

Bicycling Foot Injuries Types

While biking, it is common to suffer from foot pain or injury. Some of the injuries that can occur include

Achilles tendinitis. As you pedal, your calf muscles contract, which causes Achilles tendinitis. You may experience pain and swelling at the back of your leg above your heel.
Foot or arch pain. During a long bike ride, you may feel pain in the arches, your feet, or your heels due to the pressure you exert on the pedals. You may also experience tingling or swelling due to the same reason. If your shoes are too tight or you are riding in inappropriate gear for the terrain, you may experience foot or arch pain.
Stress fracture. You can develop stress fractures in your feet or ankles from placing too much pressure on the pedals. This is due to overuse.

Keeping your feet safe while bicycling

Consider these tips to prevent foot pain or injuries while bicycling:

Shoes and socks. Make sure that your shoes are designed for biking and fit properly. You need shoes that have room in the toes and do not fit tightly. Socks should be made from moisture-wicking materials to prevent friction, which can lead to blisters. Socks can also reduce swelling from riding.
Foot positioning. In order to prevent foot pain and injuries, you should position your feet evenly on the pedals while bicycling. Since pedaling causes force to your feet, it is important that this force is distributed evenly.
Seat height. You should be seated in a position where your heel can make full contact with the pedal in order to prevent heel and foot pain.
Rest. It is important to rest your feet if they begin to hurt or feel tired. Enjoy descents so you can reduce the pressure on your feet.

The Right Time to See a Podiatrist

During bicycling, your foot may have been injured or you will experience pain.

You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.

📲 949-588-8833

🏢 24331 El Toro Rd, Suite 370 Laguna Woods CA 92637

🏢Irvine Medical Arts Building 113 Waterworks Way, Suite 250 Irvine, CA 92618

🌐 https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/

The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professionals before starting any new treatment. Health information on this website MUST NOT be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the supervision of your doctor.