How to Prevent These Common Cycling Injuries

Cycling can be an excellent workout and a way to remain fit at any age. Once you learn how to ride a bike, you never lose that skill. Some individuals that enjoyed it as children and picked it back up as adults find that it adds a sense of contentment and peace to their lives. Both children and adults need to avoid hurting themselves when they go riding, though. Here are some injuries of which you should be careful.

 

Knee Problems

Knee problems are among the more common types of cycling injuries. They usually happen when you are pushing yourself too hard on hills. To avoid them, don’t push yourself beyond your limits. There is a difference between the sensations you get when you’re exerting yourself and those when you are causing damage. You must learn how to tell the difference.

 

Low Back Pain

The lower back is another body part that is susceptible to injury while bike riding. If you are a cyclist, you may have strong leg muscles, but you might lack the torso strength needed to resist the force from your legs when you’re going uphill. To avoid this, keep your back straight even if the grade is steep.

 

Numb Toes

If your toes grow numb when you’re cycling, that means the nerves are being compressed. The most likely causes are tight shoes, lots of steep hills that put pressure on the feet, and road vibration. Wear comfortable shoes and remove any buckles or straps that might cause damage.

 

Hand Injuries

Hand injuries while cycling manifest themselves as numbness or tingling in the fingers or palms. Do not grip the handlebars too tightly. Your fingers need to be relaxed, but your grip should be firm. Keep your wrists straight and change your hand positions frequently.

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain might occur if you have been riding for too long with your elbows straight while you have been putting too much weight on your hands. Keep your elbows flexed, so the shock from the road is transferred somewhat to the arms and upper body.

 

Injury from Cars

Injuries through collisions with cars and other vehicles are a reality for cyclists. The way to prevent them is to follow the rules of the road. You can also wear reflective clothing if you are riding at night. You can mount a light on your bike. Do not hesitate to contact a bicycle injury attorney if you’re in a collision, and you’re sure you had the right of way.

 

If you are careful, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to enjoy bicycle riding while you share the road with other vehicles and cyclists. Be mindful of where you are at all times. Don’t let your attention lapse, and you will be able to avoid most incidents. Listen to what your body is conveying to you. If you feel any discomfort or pain while riding, it is time to stop.