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Cycling is a popular form of exercise and transportation, but it can also lead to a variety of injuries. As an orthopedic surgeon or a biker, it is important to be aware of the most common cycling injuries and how to treat them.

Knee pain & cycling

One of the most common cycling injuries is knee pain, often caused by overuse or improper bike fit. This can include patellofemoral pain syndrome, iliotibial band syndrome, and patellar tendinitis. To prevent knee pain, it is important to make sure your bike is properly fitted to your body and to gradually increase the intensity and duration of your cycling. If you do experience knee pain, rest, ice, and physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Wrist pain & cycling

Another common cycling injury is hand and wrist pain, often caused by vibrations from the handlebars. This can include carpal tunnel syndrome and hand numbness. To prevent hand and wrist pain, it is important to make sure your handlebars are properly adjusted and to take frequent breaks to shake out your hands. If you do experience hand and wrist pain, rest, ice, and physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Back pain & cycling

Low back pain is also a common cycling injury, often caused by a poor riding position or a poorly adjusted bike seat. To prevent low back pain, it is important to make sure your bike seat is at the right height and that your back is properly supported while riding. If you do experience low back pain, rest, ice, and physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Other injuries that can occur from cycling include neck pain, shoulder pain, and saddle sores. To prevent these injuries, it is important to maintain good posture and to take frequent breaks to stretch.

Cycling & fractures

Cycling can also lead to a variety of fractures. One of the most common fractures in cycling is a collarbone fracture, also known as a clavicle fracture. This type of fracture occurs when the rider falls and lands on their shoulder, resulting in a break in the collarbone. Collarbone fractures are common among both competitive and recreational cyclists. Treatment for a collarbone fracture typically involves immobilization in a sling or brace, followed by physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength. Surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.

Another common fracture in cycling is a wrist fracture, which occurs when a rider falls and lands on an outstretched hand. This type of fracture can occur in both competitive and recreational cyclists. Treatment for a wrist fracture typically involves immobilization in a cast or splint, followed by physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength. Surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.

Hip fractures are also a common injury in cycling, especially among older adults. This type of fracture occurs when a rider falls and lands on their hip, resulting in a break in the hip bone. Treatment for a hip fracture typically involves immobilization, such as traction or a cast, followed by physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength. Surgery is often necessary to fix the fracture and to prevent complications.

Other common fractures in cycling include ankle fractures, knee fractures, and rib fractures. These injuries occur when a rider falls and lands on a specific part of the body. Treatment for these fractures typically involves immobilization, such as a cast or brace, followed by physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength. Surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.

In conclusion, cycling is a great form of exercise and transportation, but it can also lead to a variety of fractures. As an orthopedic surgeon, it is important to be aware of the most common fractures in cycling and how to treat them. By taking preventative measures, such as wearing protective gear and riding in safe conditions, and seeking treatment when necessary, cycling can be a safe and enjoyable activity for all.