If you can’t wait for the alarm to go off so you can break out your bike and ride, join the crowd! More and more people are turning to cycling as a primary source of exercise and recreational activity. It’s no wonder, then, that cycling injuries have become more prevalent. The sport of cycling itself has grown immensely, and athletes have even come to use it as a form of cross-training, as well as for rehabilitation. Because of this, podiatrists like Dr. Craig H. Thomajan DPM, FACFAS, have seen an increase in overuse injuries to ankles and feet of cyclists.
Before treatment can even start, though, a thorough evaluation must take place, and not just of your injury. Your history can reveal training errors that need to be corrected, as well as environmental factors that may have led to the injury. Also, making sure your bike is in good condition and you are wearing appropriate shoes is important. Lastly, proper bike fit is essential to staying healthy and injury-free while you ride. How can you tell if your bike fits? Well, like anything else, you have to try it on.
To check the frame size, straddle your bike in your bare feet. There should be close to an inch of clearance between the top tube and your crotch. For proper seat height, your knees should be fully extended at the bottom of your pedal stroke. If you feel as though you’re falling forward, then move the seatback. Handlebars are typically placed about 2 to 4 centimeters below the seat height. In addition, pedals with or without clips should be rotated and adjusted to your natural foot position.
A thorough examination of both patient and bike offers insight into the cause of the cycling injuries. It also allows doctors to not only provide diagnosis and treatment but also identify ways in which further injuries can be prevented.
Are You Looking for a Sports Injuries Expert in Austin, TX?
If you are looking for sports injury care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.
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