Unbelievable. Really, these guys are just amazing. Shawn and I have been watching the Tour again this year, and the physique and power of these athletes is just incredible. Of course we watch their 'perfect' biomechanics, and we get jealous and want to get on our bikes and ride, and ride and ride. So we do. And we think we can do this because they make it look so simple, and then......our knees hurt, our backs hurt, our hands go numb, we get neck pain, and then we head home, turn on the TV and watch them do it.
Cycling is an incredible sport, and I have had the honor of treating some great cyclists. It requires an incredible amount of core strength and power. These athletes put in the time to succeed. For most of us, we cycle more as a recreational sport than as a career, and in those cases, injury does occur.
So what are the most common cycling injuries?
1. Knee pain. This is very common. First recommendation, get your bike FIT. This makes a huge difference, it's like setting up your work station 'ergonomically correct'.
Knee pain can be caused by several things, patellofemoral pain syndrome,which is pain around the knee cap. Chondromalacia refers to softening and deterioration of the underside of the kneecap. Osteoarthritis of the knee, degeneration and wearing away of the joint cartilage.
2. Hand Numbness/ulnar neuropathy. Possibly caused by pressure on the handlebars for long periods of time.
3. Muscle cramps. Sudden, tight, intense pain caused by a muscle locked in spasm.
4. Sprains/strains. Acute injuries resulting in pain, swelling and bruising.
5. Iliotibial Band Syndrome. Can result in knee pain on the outside (lateral) aspect of the knee.
6. Achilles Tendonitis: Chronic injury from overuse. Painful condition in the back of the ankle.
7. Plantar Fasciitis: Pain in the heel usually occurring with the first steps in the AM.
8. Piriformis Syndrome: Pain in the GLUTEAL area. VERY common.
These diagnoses are common and must be identified to prevent further damage. The good news is once we identify the problem, we can fix it. So for all of you cyclists out there, listen to your bodies. If you are experiencing pain, get it checked out. It will save you in the long run, and then maybe you can get out and ride and ride and ride, instead of watching and watching and watching. ;)
Take responsibility for your health today.
Dr. Courtney Conley,
Chiropractor Golden, CO
Chiropractor, Idaho Springs, CO
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