Causes of toe cramps

The Rookie

Been doing longer rides of late, I am always prone to cramps and have to drink a lot (no not alcohol or plain water either) to fend them off, on a recent long distance ride I was on the verge of cramps in my toes the whole time (it felt like my toes were on fire at times, but plenty of fluids would fend it off, it was a hot ride mind and I downed 5.5litres in 11 hours and didn't pee once) and was wondering if, apart from other causes, it may be caused by cleat position (SPD, shimano shoes) loading my toes up to counteract pedal force. Any thoughts before I go ahead and move my cleats back a few mm (if there is any room on the sole!).

robertpb

Leg extension and pushing your toes down with load is a common cause of these cramps.

I get it sometimes in the car when I push down the accelerator, not much load but it's enough.

jeffrix

I get toe cramps when I get dehydrated - use High Five Zero to replace electrolytes. If you are doing a long ride in hot conditions and are not peeing then you arent taking in enough fluid. And the fluid needs to replace the electrolytes which you've lost (sweat is salty, right ?)

mmacavity

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/mortonsneuroma/Pages/treatmentpage.aspx

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/mortonsneuroma/Pages/Introduction.aspx

http://velonews.competitor.com/2012/08/bikes-and-tech/technical-faq/technical-faq-rearward-cleat-positioning-wheel-lifespan-and-corrosion_234538

http://www.bikejames.com/strength-training/barefoot-pedaling-flat-pedals/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXY8SIEnCdA