Get a Foot Ahead on the Competition While Riding Your Bike This Month
Happy National Bike Riding Month! Every May since 1956, the United States has celebrated these two-wheeled contraptions and the people that ride them. While we are enjoying these fantastic rides, we still need to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves.
Whether you are taking a trip around the neighborhood or biking across the country, you need to take care of your feet. A major step to improving your overall foot health is learning some basic problems that could occur while riding and how to fix them through equipment and personal care.
Biking Problems
Bike riding is obviously a very foot-heavy activity, and the more you ride, the more you need to pay attention to potential problems. These can range from hot spots and blisters to nerve issues and severe foot pain. Each issue brings its own set of worries, but all of these can be planned for and treated relatively quickly if you act fast.
Treat Yourself
Foot exercises go a long way when it comes to discomfort and soreness. If you do some basic exercises like the toe flexor stretch, foot arch rockers, and foot arch ball massage before and after each bike ride, you will greatly help reduce your pain. If your pain or discomfort is not getting better, visit your local foot specialists. They can diagnose the issue and give you the best options for treating it.
Choose the Right Gear
When it comes to bike riding, the gear you choose is of utmost important to the health of your feet. Getting a professional bike fit is a great way of making sure your posture and your bike are helping your body, not hurting it. It can seem like a costly option, but bike fitting is a more-than-worthy investment for serious riders.
You also need to make sure you have nicely fitting pedals. Depending on the style of biking you intend to do, a different pedal could be the best option for you. Shoes and socks should be known as important for foot care, but they still don’t get the attention that they deserve. Finding a right-fitting shoe is the difference between an enjoyable weekend biking with friends and feeling like your feet are on fire for three days.
Let Foot Specialists of Birmingham Help
We are professional foot specialists that can help you prevent an injury or treat an existing one. If your feet are in pain or discomfort, it affects your entire way of living, and we understand the importance of keeping them in top condition. Contact us for more information on how we can help you.