Cycling has proven to be a form of exercise that builds endurance and works the whole body. People love riding bikes, but orthopedic injuries from the most experienced to new riders are very common. A spill off of the bike can land you in the hospital with severe trauma and injury. It is among the worst of all sports injuries.
Professional cycling does involve repetitive movements, which can get pretty bad if they are not treated. But most cycling orthopedic injuries are often related to parts of the bicycle and where they make contact with the body. Orthopedic injuries from falls off the bike cause injuries to the knees, ankles, hips, hands, and feet.
ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET TO MINIMIZE HEAD INJURIES when cycling. Here are some other ways you can cycle safely and avoid injury:
Cycle at a Safe Speed
One way to avoid injury is to ride a bike at a safe speed. When people ride too fast and cannot stop, they often fall and suffer injuries to soft tissue, bones, and muscles.
Properly Positioning the Seat
Injuries are also linked to the posture riders choose while on their bicycles. If the seat is uncomfortable, riders will adjust their bodies rather than adjusting the seat. If the handlebars are too close or too far, shoulder injuries can occur. The best way to ride a bicycle is with a straight back and shoulders.
Respect the Knees
When it comes to repetitive use injuries, the knees are highly susceptible. Cyclists don’t have to deal with impact injuries like runners do, but they suffer from injuries related to the position of their feet on the pedals. When the feet are positioned incorrectly, knees can be forced out of alignment and the result is pain that can radiate into the patella and quadriceps, too.
The best way to decrease the chance of knee pain is to position the feet properly on the pedals, especially if your shoes are going to be locked into place on them. When your feet are properly aligned, you will have stronger strokes. Some cyclists get insoles in their shoes to help adjust the position of their feet and knees.
Pain Relief from Muscle Fatigue and Tightness
Professional and dedicated cyclists often find that their leg muscles get very tight. "Because of the repetitive motion, the legs learn to adapt and the brain does not register the tightness. But, when cyclists do a different exercise, the tightness becomes noticeable and uncomfortable." (USA Cycling)
When the muscles are too tight, cyclists run the risk of tearing them. To avoid injuries, cyclists should stretch before and after a ride. Massage or workout with a foam roller helps too.
If you are suffering from pain due to your cycling habits, call Ortho El Paso. We'll help you manage it by properly diagnosing your orthopedic injury and finding a treatment program that best works for you. Call us at 915-249-4000 to schedule a consultation.
