As the temperature rises, getting out and getting active becomes much easier. One means of getting a little exercise and sun, is by means of cycling. You can get your heart rate going, feel the wind on your skin, and get where you’re going at the same time. All in all, if you have the chance, cycling is a pretty good way to go. But, what you might not realize is, riding a bike has it’s own set of associated dangers. Cycling injuries can stem from a number of different circumstances, mostly depending on when, where, and how you ride. But the good news is, you can prevent a lot of those injuries from occurring.
Cycling Injuries and How to Treat Them
Lower Back Pain and Strain
You might not consider it, but cycling injuries can arise from staying on the bike. A crash isn’t the only way to leave the bike with pain. In all actuality, some of the worst pain comes from riding just how you’re supposed to. Think about it, you’re curled over the handlebars for fun. Add that to the fact that most of us spend our work day hunched over a computer, and the problem becomes much worse. It can impact your posture, and the development of chronic back pain. The key to treatment and prevention is mostly in stretching, and positioning yourself on the bike. Get a good, preventative and post-ride stretch in. Focus on your posture, and focus on positioning your seat and handlebars in a way that relieves pressure.
Impact or Crash Injury
These types of injuries occur, quite obviously, during a crash. Therefore, they mostly occur in cyclists who ride in a competition setting, in a metropolitan area, or on rough trails. Anywhere that you might make quick changes, avoid obstacles, or ride very closely to people. An impact, or crash, injury can be anything from bone breaks, to strains, and road rash. Any injury resulting from that impact. Treatment for these have a great range, being that they vary quite greatly. For road rash? Antiseptic creams and keeping it clean will do the trick. But, when it comes to more serious injury— seek a professional.
Saddle Sore
Cycling is tough on the bum, so, saddle sores are a strong possibility if you ride quite frequently. A saddle sore is mostly characteristic of a sore, raised area that arises on your backside. Saddle sore is not typically serious, just keep it clean and dry. To prevent it, consider finding some more well-fitted riding attire, a different bicycle seat, or a cream to reduce friction.