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
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