A doctor explains that there are several possible causes to a pain in the ball of the foot when cycling.
This can occur while riding outdoors or while using a stationary bike.
There are several possible causes of pain in the ball of your foot when pedaling a bike.
“Pain in the ball of the foot, especially when cycling, can be due to several issues,” says Nere Onosode, DPM, of OrthoCARE, which specializes in all elements of orthopedic medicine including foot, ankle, knee, hip and shoulder care.
Footwear
“The simplest solution is usually the most missed. Addressing the type and size of shoes used to ambulate and/or ride is important.
“Full length arch supports with forefoot padding can help alleviate pain at the ball of the foot.”
Make sure that your footwear is designed for cycling, or at least, exercise.
Don’t assume that an indoor “exercycle” doesn’t count as enough exercise to warrant proper footwear.
In other words, avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops while pedaling (people have been known to do this).
As for arch supports, these are sold online and at drug stores; no prescription required.
There are many varieties, and you may need to try several different versions before finding the right ones.
Musculoskeletal Causes
Dr. Onosode explains, “From a musculoskeletal standpoint, it could be a bone issue from crowding of the metatarsals that make up the ball of the foot, or entrapment of nerves that run in between those.”
You may even have a hairline fracture of a metatarsal bone, which an X-ray would likely show.
A hairline fracture of a metatarsal bone is a small, often subtle crack in one of the long bones in the foot, which can occur due to repetitive stress or trauma.
This type of fracture is typically characterized by a thin, non-displaced crack that may not always be visible on standard X-rays but at least can be detected with advanced imaging techniques if symptoms persist.
Dr. Onosode adds, “Also, inflammation of the bursa can cause pain. If the pain is related to inflammation, a simple OTC anti-inflammatory pills can help resolve that.”
Bursitis occurs when one of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones and tendons becomes irritated or inflamed.
This condition commonly affects the bursa located at the base of the toes or under the heel.
The inflammation can result from repetitive stress, improper footwear, or direct trauma.
Treatment can also include ice. In some cases, physical therapy or injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
In summary, pain in the ball of your foot should not happen while cycling.
If it doesn’t go away despite icing, self-massage and taking a break from the exercise, see a doctor.
Nere Onosode, DPM, is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and board qualified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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