From the late 1800s, cycling moved from a casual mode of transport to a trendy hobby for people who joined clubs and rode recreationally on weekends or in their free time. For professional athletes, however, cycling is much more than an amateur sport-it is their occupation. With the span of time since its introduction in the late 1800s, cycling has grown as a mode of getting to work, improving physical fitness, or competing at the highest level in sport. Today, there are approximately 80 million cyclists in the United States alone, among whom many suffer from some type of cycling-related physical complaint. Neck pain is the most common complaint for nearly half of all cyclists, followed by the knees (42%), groin and buttocks (36%), hands (31%), and back (30%), according to research. No matter what the motivation for getting on the bike, these young riders will avoid many of these complaints if they pay attention to these key safety tips:.
Common Cycling Injuries and How to Prevent Them
Knee Pain
Cycling has three main weak points which make knees most prone to overuse injury. Probably the most common is what is known as ‘cyclist’s knee’, followed by patella and quadriceps tendinitis, medial plica syndrome, and iliotibial band friction syndrome which can cause pain either around or on the outside of the knee. The problems may be prevented with adjustments to reduce strain: shoe inserts, wedges under the shoe, and proper cleat positioning.
Head Injuries
Head injuries range from minor cuts to full traumatic brain injuries. So, wearing a helmet is very important. According to various studies, wearing a helmet will reduce the rate of sustaining a head injury by as much as 85%. Although many states do not enforce any kind of law which would oblige a rider to wear a helmet, helmets are cheap and lifesaving in many ways.
Neck and Back Pain
Cyclists often experience neck and back discomfort from sitting for hours in the same riding position or with poor posture. Low handlebars or tight hamstrings and hip flexors can cause riders to round their backs, putting strain in the neck and back. Regular stretching of these muscles; adjustment of handlebar height; and changes in hand position while riding can all help reduce these symptoms.
Wrist/Forearm Pain or Numbness
Riding with arms stiff or locked causes an excess strain on the wrists. Overuse-related issues like Cyclist’s Palsy and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome result from this lock position. To avoid this, cyclists are advised to ride with a slightly bent elbow, wear padded gloves, and change positions often in their hands. Hands and wrists also need to be stretched before taking any ride.
Urogenital Problems
Pudendal neuropathy is a condition where men who spend hours on the bike develop numbness or pain in the genital or rectal area. This happens due to pressure on the blood flow to that area. Remedial measures include the use of a wider seat or a padded seat, adjustment of the seat angle, or using padded cycling shorts to relieve pressure.
Foot Numbness and Tingling
Narrow or tight cycling shoes can also be a cause of tingling and numbness of the feet. The condition may be due to exertional compartment syndrome, as the pressure over the lower leg increases and compresses the nerves. He can diagnose this and treat it with surgical intervention if needed.
When to See a Doctor
Now, if the injury has bleeding, sharp and severe pain, paralysis, or increased weakness, it requires immediate medical attention. Minor overuse injuries can be managed with rest, administration of over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and alternating between using ice and heat.
Prevention and awareness regarding common bicycle injuries will help cyclists enjoy their ride much more safely.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
