Hi all,
Following a race last year my right foot was extremely painful to walk on. Since then, I’ve noticed that, whilst working hard on the bike, my toes seem to curl up, particularly on my right foot. I’ve got high arches on my feet so put some insoles in but it’s still happening (I possibly have the wrong insoles).
I’m keen to race more this year so: has anyone else experienced this and, if so, did you find a solution?
For footpain, have you noticed if it is that your metatarsal is not well supported? I too have a very high arch and find myself digging into the ball of my foot a lot. What I’ve tried is to use high arches and then put in two metatarsal pads on the insole myself attempting to spread my foot a little bit. That has created pretty good results for me. (Was able to complete my Everesting with not that significant amount of foot pain - my back was giving up towards the end, not my feet…)
Not sure if this is accessible to you, but I use SIDAS custom moulded insoles which have solved lots of problems that didn’t go away with off the shelf pre-made insoles… They provide pretty much perfect support for my whole foot and with a well fitting upper on a shoe it means that I completely stopped digging in with my toes.
I think they are supported with the insoles I have but, I get the feeling it might be worth investing in some new ones! 
Thanks, Nico. I’ll take a look! 
I’ve noticed that sometimes I have to remember to concentrate on my feet when pedalling and deliberately remember to try to keep them as relaxed as possible whilst pedalling.
It is too easy to forget about this, and put out loads of force and power as the adrenaline flows.
Then later realise that that extra tension in the feet wasn’t necessary and often leads to post ride pain or discomfort.
I guess part of this is developing a smooth pedalling action as well. One that is relaxed but powerful and efficient. Doing some feet massages or flexibility drills a few times a week helps me too.
Can you keep us updated on your progress please, I suffer from the same problem. I’ve tried different insoles, different shoes and cleat positions, Had 2 x independent bike fits. I had some gains but still not 100% solved. Always happens on a long ride ,around the 150km mark. and/or when I working hard on a hill climb.
I’ve had the same problem when running, half marathons and over - toes feel like they’re trying to curl under the ball of my foot.
I always attributed it to cramping. Calf strengthening exercises and good nutrition seem to help to some extent.
Could be signs of hammer toe and Morton’s neuroma. An insole with a metatarsal pad is not a bad idea for anyone. You can get metatarsal pads, but placing them is a bit of an art.
I got some of these a month ago - Specialized Body Geometry SL Footbeds - Specialized Concept Store - and they’re brilliant. Have definitely made a huge difference for a very small price!
Definitely recommend!