Cycling Injuries

Spring has officially sprung! And just as the just as the nice weather has pushed the leaves to rise out of their buds, so too has it pushed you and me to rise out of our beds to enjoy all it has to offer. One of the most popular springtime activities, of course, is bicycle riding. Bike riding has garnered a reputation over the years as being something that people can enjoy both recreationally and competitively. While many of us may take bike riding for granted, it is always important for us to be reminded of the cycling injuries related to such an involving activity, and how to best prevent or treat them.

Always wear a helmet! Cycling-related accidents account for approximately 900 deaths per year. The majority of these deaths are the result of head trauma following a crash, fall, or collision of some kind. Experts suggest that wearing a helmet while cycling can reduce the risk of head trauma by eighty-five percent. Bicycle helmets can usually be purchased at low costs and in a variety of styles, so there is no reason to ever put yourself at an increased risk of head trauma while enjoying a lovely spring day by not wearing one.

While head trauma following a cycling accident may be the most immediately serious of all potential injuries, it is not the only type to be aware of. Statistics show that most fatal injuries are sustained by cyclists between the ages of 15 and 19, as well as cyclists near 40 years of age and older. So where does that leave the rest of us? Avid cyclists who enjoy long rides often find themselves suffering from “overuse” injuries- most commonly knee, back, and neck pain. These types of injuries can be prevented by wearing well-fitting shoes with supportive padding, pre-ride stretches, and regular bike maintenance to make sure that everything fits your body comfortably. Other overuse injuries include forearm and wrist pain, urogenital and buttox discomfort, and foot numbness; all of which can be taken care of with a mid-ride position change.

Here at Island Sports Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating neck and back pain through spinal rehabilitation, as well as in treating sport-specific injuries with workout plans. Whether you have already suffered from cycling injuries, or would like some preventative treatment to ensure that you will be the best cyclist you can possibly be, make sure to schedule your appointment today.