I’m having problems with foot numbness (in the toes) in my new shoes. What are the common causes for this? My right foot is a little bigger than the left, but it is actually the left foot that is getting numb. One thing I notice is that I feel the pressure in different spots on my left and right feet. My left foot feels like I am applying the pressure farther back, and on the outside of the foot, a few centimeters below my pinky toe. Could this be causing the numbness, and if so, what can I do to fix the problem?
I used to get a lot of numbness in my toes because I kept my shoes very tight. I also pedal with my toes down, so I was pushing my feet toward the front of my shoes. I loosened my shoes and flattened my feet while pedaling and I don’t have the numbness any more.
I had the same problem as well with new shoes until I double checked the position of my cleats- I had it professionally done at a fitting- and it turned out they were way too far back!! The way they explained it to me is the the ball of your foot needs to be central to the pedal for maximim comfort as well as power. Now I have little to no trouble with them even on long rides.
I have my cleats placed where they are using this thing called a R.A.D fitting at a local bikeshop. I don’t know if that’s the same thing you had done or not. I’m considering getting it checked again though. Maybe I need a LeWedge or two to move the pressure from one side of the foot?
Actually, it feels like the left shoe is twisted. I use Look pedals, and the red cleats, so I have some float. On the right side, while I’m pedaling I can float my foot left or right an equal amount. On the left side I can only float to the right, essentially it is at it’s limit on the left. I had the same type of cleat fitting done on my last pair of shoes (they were bigger, and I never experienced any numbness) and noticed the same thing, so I experimented and changed my cleat position myself. I wasn’t real happy with the way that felt however, as it felt as though I had moved the cleat backwards. Not wanting to muck with it too much, I left it alone. When I got my new pair of shoes I had the same technique used (R.A.D.) to place the cleat and it put it right back to where it was before on my old shoes after the last fitting. So, I figured since it was repeatable, it was in the right spot.
I hope that’s not too confusing. So, basically, I think my foot is twisted. I’m not sure if I have any feet problems. I have had a heck of a time with shin splints while running, which seem to be a bit worse in the left leg. Maybe there’s a connection.