Bicycling, simply coined, as just cycling or biking is one good way to flex one?s leg muscles. It is a low impact sport and one good source for a total cardiovascular workout. Cycling is also a great venue for leisure and recreation as one gets to travel to places while keeping fit.
Being a sport involving strength, stamina and, of course, wheels, people who engage in cycling are at risk of pain and injuries which could be due to? a poorly maintained bicycle, unfit bicycle size and improper riding technique.
For cyclists, it is best that they check their bicycle before a ride and have them adjusted to fit their bodies and prevent injuries.
The most serious of all bike injuries is a head injury that is why cyclists should exercise careful consideration on how to wear the proper helmet, elbow and knee pads to keep damages at bay.
Cyclists are also advised to be always on the lookout for the early signs of injury so they will know what to do ahead. Injuries happening during a ride would leave them in discomfort to continue the journey?worse, could leave them on the road.
Here are common cycling injuries and how one should care for them.
Over Fatigue- frequent among cyclists and athletes who are training for a competition and is due to overtraining or straining their bodies beyond limits. When this happens, it is advisable for one to rest, relax and replenish the lost energies and cancel the ride for another day.
Muscle Cramps- a sudden tightening of the muscles where intense pain is felt due to a muscle locked in spasm. Should this injury happen, it is advisable for one to rest the injured muscle, gently massage and stretch it once in awhile until it regains its correct state. For leg cramps, putting some pressure on the injured leg and taking a warm shower helps to soothe the injury.
For the prevention of muscle cramps, cyclists are strongly advised to condition their bodies before a ride. This can be done by taking in supplements such as Vitamin B, adequate fluid hydration and electrolyte drinks. Stretching also helps the muscles flex, thereby, prevents shock from happening.
?Sprains / Strains- pain, swelling and bruising of joints as a result from constant strain. Should this injury happen, it is advisable for cyclists to take a rest and ice the injured area. Compression is also advised while keeping the injured area elevated to minimise swelling.
Hand Numbness / Ulnar Neuropathy- numbness and pain in the small and ring fingers this often the result of constant pressure on the handlebars over long periods. Should this injury occur; cyclists are advised to rest and flex their hands until the pain subsides.
Blisters- are fluid- filled pockets in the upper layers of the skin caused by friction from forceful rubbing, burning or infection. To prevent this injury from happening, cyclists are advised to put on sunscreen and sun protection equipment to avoid sunburn blisters. They are also advised to wear hand gloves to prevent friction with the handlebars.
For the immediate relief of blisters, cyclists are advised to put ice on top of the affected area until the pain subsides.
Knee Pain- Another common injury to cyclists, due to the constant application of leg pressure on the bike pedals. Should knee pains occur, it is advisable for cyclists to rest the injured area and put ice on it to soothe and minimise the swelling of the injury. Compression by wrapping the injury with an elastic badge and elevation will help the injury heal quickly.
In extreme cases, it is advisable to ask help from a medical professional or a physiotherapist in Perth for proper treatment and evaluation, as the cause could be serious.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) ? is characterised by discomfort and pain from the constant contact of the thigh bone and the back of the kneecap. To care for this condition cyclists are advised to rest, put on ice to relieve the pain. If the pain frequently occurs, it is advised to seek help from a medical professional as orthotics and medication are required to permanently solve the problem.
Source: http://iphysioperth.com.au/news/sports-physiotherapy-for-cycling-injuries/
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