Cycling

Cycling Analysis

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     .       . .        Foot Flat Pronated Heel Lifting Windlass engaging Forefoot Fully Loaded Windlass Activated

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Above is a simple plantar flexion test to determine forefoot stability. Cycling places a huge load on the front of the foot thus it needs to be supported throughout the entirety of the foot. This will ulitimately help align the knee as the foot will be in a much superior position.

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The cycling custom footbeds (orthotics) are engineered to stabilise and re-distribute the pressure evenly inside the cycling shoe. This also ensures that the foot is aligned effectively with the knees and hip for maximum peddling efficiency and power output. This step forms a key part of the alignment process and has the huge influence over your peddle power.

 

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To get an edge on the competition the latest bike technology will only go so far. To leverage the maximum levels of output, bike and body must work in perfect harmony and alignment.

There are huge technical demands associated with cycling and even the smallest advantages translate into huge gains in racing. A lighter frame & expensive components all help, but are worth nothing if you are not functioning efficiently. Footpro's Cycling custom moulded insoles help to provide a more efficient delivery of power to the pedal while maximising the transfer of energy and increasing endurance. Cyclists often suffer from foot pain such as burning under the balls of the feet and knee pain due to poor alignment originating from the feet.

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Cycling Custom Insole Process

The setup of the bike is just as important as correct foot, ankle and knee alignment.  Having the correct set up will increase your ability to  deliver maximum peddling efficiency and power output. An ill-fitting bike can cause a 20 percent reducing into power output. This process starts off with the correct alignment of the cleats in relation to the peddles, once this is correct the saddle height and position are adjusted for optimal body position and performance.  This process should allways be completed by a cycling professional. Footpro can help assist with any cycling related questions but are allways happy to refer onto specific fitters. Research shows that over 65% of cyclist are using an incorrectly setup.

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3D Imaging of the foot allows a different perspective on the pressure distribution. It clearly shows any abnormality through the foot. This will help when creating your fully customised insole as we can gauge how much support to create for your specific needs.


Injury Fact Sheet - Illiotibial Band Syndrome

 

The Illiotibal Band (ITB) is a strong fibrous tendon which has a huge role in stabilising the hip and knee. The Illiotibal band or ITB originates at the top of the hip bone and inserts on the lateral side of the tibia. It has a huge bearing on the tracking position of the knee. Constant friction of the ITB on the bony area of the knee can cause irritation of this area resulting in pain and inflammation on the outside of the knee. ITB syndrome is a common injury for runners but can also be found in cyclists as the lateral portion of the leg is under more strain. Too much tension through the ITB can be a result of a variety of factors including leg length issues, tight hamstrings, muscle imbalance, shoe choice and poor foot mechanics.

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Step 1 Gait Analysis and Footscan

  • ITB issues can be highlighted through in-depth video analysis. Certain aspects such as the tracking of the knee and motion of the foot can be identified. The correlation of current footwear and ITB syndrome can be also be assitained.

Step 2 Custom Moulded Insole

  • The custom insole helps to keep the foot in its optimum position. This has a positive effect on the tracking of the knee and considerably reduces the tension through the ITB.

Step 3 Footwear

  • Improper fitting cycling shoes can have a negative impact on the tracking of the knee. This will increase the chance of ITB syndrome at the knee. Shoes which over or under-support the foot can affect the alignment of the knee and which can ultimately lead to overuse injuries such as ITB. Footwear is a key component in the fitting process and our technicians can help recommend the right solution to reduce the risk of injury.

Make sure to check out our other Injury fact sheets for more information:

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