I use to wear orthotics while biking... that is until I learn to ride correctly and in a proper fit/position.

Orthotics for Bike shoes are not like orthotics for running shoes. They are hard(er). They are primarily designed to prevent ITB problems or adjust for leg length differentials. Proper fitting of orthotics requires a knowledgeable person with experience in noting irregular knee movements when viewed from the front.

When my orthotics were created some years ago, they video recorded my vertical leg movement from a front view. Then, they converted the video recording to a digital format (which was pretty radical concept some 15 yrs. ago). Then they reveiwed the leg motion. Noted irregular movement (i.e., referenced as a figure eight like vertical leg motion). Then, they created a foot mold to create a bike orthotics. Total cost about $800.00 in late 80's dollars. I have no idea what that may cost today.

Thats my experience with bike orthotics. What I learn most about my experience is how to evaluate bike fitting relative to front views and vertical leg movements. Something you seldom hear described or reference by bike fitters. Why? Good question, ...but it's most likely because the concern of most bike fitters is aerodynamics and upper body comfort. They seldom take potential knee damage into consideration.

Finally as for your particular problem, I have no personal experience as to whether or not orthotics can help a plantar problem. But, I see no reason why it couldn't... but, I would not expect a whole lot of help since plantar fasciitis is a inflamation problem typically on the bottom back of the foot caused by repetitive stress. If I was to guess, arch support may be the best use of a bike shoe orthotic... but for a bike orthotic, arches pay little effort in the process. The pressure and effort is primarily in the forefoot (i.e., ball of the foot). The problems for plantar fasciitis is more commonly in the heal portion of the foot. Cushioning the heal of the bike shoe may help but cushioning (via orthotics) the ball of the foot could cause more problems than you solve. I think most of your plantar problems are running/standing related and the bike is actually a benefit to reduction in plantar problems.

FWIW Joe Moya

I get a cramp in the outside of my foot when I cycle and am looking towards getting cycle orthodics. I have them for my running shoes.

I've been told that www.surefoot.com specialises in them and I plan on trying them out soon.

Curious about how you could have your foot scanned by their device while on the pedal of a bike. I'd be interested in how their system could work for bike specific shoes and bike specific foot position.

It seems (at a glance), they are trying to use a normal foot position to determine proper othotics for a bike shoe. This couldn't be farther from the truth. The biomechanics of bike shoe, movement, muscle group usage and pressure points are NOT like walking, running or standing. That biomechanic difference is one big reason why it's difficult to run after riding. Bike othotics are not like running orthotics. To assume they are simalar could lead to more problems than are solved (specially with regard to ITB knee problems).

Without looking at your pedaling technique, if you have a cramp on the outside of your foot... I'd would make a WAG that the foot on that leg twists and makes it hyper-extend outward in the forefoot area. IF SO, the cause of this may not be your shoe, but rather your knee going inward at some point during the spin or heal going inward (and, knee outward). If you've had ITB knee problems it may mean it's your knee... If not, it may be a problem with your heal's range of motion. There are other possible reasons for your problem... but, without having someone with experience regarding bike orthotics looking at your pedaling techique your potential solution may not be a solution. I can't see how a static device used by surefoot could determine the source of your problem and develope a proper othotic. Good luck.

FWIW Joe Moya

If you're in the New England/New York area you can contact Ian at Fitwerx. They do custom footbeds and cant wedges.

http://www.fitwerx.com/...CyclingFootbeds.html