Let me throw my hat into the ring...as a Wobble-Naught fitter, I offer a complete fitting solution that is based on motion studies and anatomical precision. In addition to the adjustment of the saddle and stem, I address cleat adjustment, I measure flexibility, and I determine the need for insoles. Check out www.wobblenaught.com.
Many times orthotics do not address the specific needs of cycling. Most are designed with the heel to toe action of either walking or running. So be sure that the orthotics you choose are designed for the biomechanical demands of cycling. Custom orthotics tend to be pretty pricey. There are a number of different approaches that may work just as well or better without the added expense. Specialized offers cycling insoles with internal removable shims that alter the angle of the ankle to ensure direct power transmission to the pedal and relieve the stress of shearing forces when force is applied. Also, cleat wedges from Bike Fit Systems that are placed under the cleats may be helpful. I can provide you with any of these.
http://winningfit.com
One of the things you will find that is characteristic of the Wobble-Naught fitting system is the rearward placement of the cleats as compared to traditional thought. Rather than placing the cleat at a position directly beneath the pivot point (ball of the foot), it is shifted slightly behind that point, allowing for greater power with every pedal thrust and eliminating much of the pressure that is placed on the nerves that are so prevalent in that area. This idea first began to gain acceptance several years ago with ultra-endurance riders (Race Across America). Anyone who has ever attempted such cycling feats of endurance knows that one of the greatest challenges is sore feet or hot spots. We have all heard that "necessity is the Mother of invention". Through experimentation, these riders gradually discovered that they could actually drill holes in the arch and slide the cleat all the way back to that point, completely away from the area with the high concentration of nerves. They were able to ride pain free with little to no loss of power.
CycleOne also offers testing services that include motion analysis with the patented Dartfish software, and SpinScan analysis with CompuTrainer. These are both methods of providing the rider with immediate bio-feedback on pedaling mechanics. If you want to read further, go to
http://shop.cycleone.net/category.sc?categoryId=6
J.Michael Manning
CycleOne LLC
USA Cycling Level 1 Coach
NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist
"Athletic Excellence is our Business"
Date: Mon, 16 Jun 2008 15:59:24 -0700
From: news4joel@gmail.com
To: obra@list.obra.org
Subject: [OBRA Chat] Bike fit and shoe orthotics
I've been experiencing foot hotspots and numbness while riding, and it's time to get it taken care of. Anyone out there know a good bike fit specialist in the greater Portland area who can also do bike shoe orthotics? Based on my running shoe experiences, I'm guessing the solution will be a little of both.
Thanks,
-Joel
--
__o "It never gets easier,
_ \<_ you just go faster."
(_)/(_) -- Greg LeMond
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