Foot Pain and Cycling: a survey of frequency, type, location, associations and amelioration of foot pain
Journal Title: Journal of Science and Cycling - Year 2012, Vol 1, Issue 2
Abstract
The foot – pedal interface is the primary site for energy transfer from the cyclist to the bicycle, with anecdotal evidence that foot injuries from cycling are common. However, there is little research regarding the prevalence, aetiology and/or management of such injuries. 1) What is the distribution of age, gender, foot/pedal interface use and distances cycled amongst cyclists who experience foot pain? 2) What type of pain and what region of the foot do cyclists experience pain? 3) What amelioration techniques are used for this cycling foot pain? 4) Are there key groups of cyclists at greater risk of foot pain than others?. Cyclists over 18 years of age riding a non-stationary, upright bicycle at least once a week (minimum of one hour) were invited to participate in an electronic questionnaire. The electronic link to the survey was distributed through three large databases Bike SA, (the peak representative body for South Australian cyclists), Mega Bike (a large bicycle shop in Adelaide) and staff and students of the School of Health Sciences at the University of South Australia. The survey asked about cycling participation, pedal interface and foot pain. The survey was returned by 397 participants (93.9% responses eligible for analysis). Foot pain was reported by 53.9% respondents. The forefoot, inclusive of the toenails, toes and ball of the foot, was the highest reported region of foot pain (61%). The pain was described as ‘burning’ and ‘numbness’. ‘Stopping’ for a period of time during the cycle and ‘removing their shoes’, ‘walking around’, ‘massaging’ and ‘stretching’ the foot was the most commonly reported amelioration technique. The group of cyclists at greatest risk of experiencing foot pain are those who ride with an attached (cleated-in, strap, cage) foot-pedal interface.
Authors and Affiliations
Hayley Uden*| University of South Australia, Australia, Sara Jones| School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Karen Grimmer| International Centre for Allied Health Evidence, University of South Australia
Keywords
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