Do contoured in-shoe foot orthoses reduce foot plantar pressures by increasing plantar contact area during cycling?. (Abstract)

Foot pain and numbness are frequently reported among cyclists and believed to be the result of repetitive high pressures occurring beneath the foot. Orthoses may be used to mitigate these high pressures by distributing them over a larger plantar surface area. This study evaluated the effect of commercially available orthoses on plantar pressures, contact areas, comfort and support. In summary it found that contoured orthoses increase contact area and decrease plantar pressures during cycling. Decreasing plantar pressure is moderately associated with improved overall comfort.