Understanding Cycling Pain: Differentiating Between Bike Fit Issues and Injuries
Riders know that pain can sometimes be part of the experience when cycling. After all we tend to seek out the steepest climbs, chunkiest trails, and longest rides we can and suffer through them all for fun! But while suffering WITH the bike is part of the “type 2” fun we cyclists enjoy, suffering FROM the bike is another thing. Pain that limits riding can be a huge barrier for riders looking to enjoy their time in the saddle. It can be even harder for riders to discern if pain is from an injury, or if it is something that can be relieved with bike fit adjustments.
Common fit issues can certainly lead to pain. Having a saddle that is improperly sized or positioned can lead to perineal pain and numbness, too much reach could cause neck and back pain, and a low saddle could lead to knee pain. But that doesn’t mean that the pain felt on a ride is only due to the fit of your bike. So how can you tell if your pain is related to positioning? First, the timing of the pain is important. Pain that arises only when riding and that is relieved once you are off the bike or change your position is a pretty strong indicator that the bike fit is a culprit. Additionally pain that may be present on or off the bike but decreased when you spend more time off the bike is another indicator that riding position is exacerbating an issue. Finally if pain is only located in areas that are contacting the bike such as the palms or saddle area, that again points to the bike fit being part of the cause. If this sounds like your pain, find a qualified bike fitter in your area who can assess and adjust your bike to mitigate the symptoms you are experiencing. If those symptoms persist after a fitting, follow up with your medical provider and consider seeing a physical therapist.
On the other hand, pain may be aggravated by riding but due to a cause beyond simple bike fit issues. Injuries or conditions such as tendinitis, arthritis, strains, and stress fractures are just some of the potential causes of pain. You can usually notice red flags such as sharp and localized pain, loss of range of motion, swelling, and especially pain that persists even when you are not riding. If your pain is not alleviated by time off from riding and limits you off the bike as well as on, you should consult with a medical provider such as a physical therapist to determine the underlying cause of your condition. In most cases, PT and conservative care will get you feeling better and back to riding quickly!
It is important as riders to always check in with your body to assess for pain or issues before they become major limitations. Consistently practicing appropriate stretching, cross training, and strengthening are also critical parts of staying pain free both on and off bike!
Cycle Life PT offers the best of both worlds in the form of a Clinical Bike Fitting that combines a PT evaluation with a comprehensive bike fitting to address both on an off bike issues that may be causing pain. So don’t wait for your minor aches to become major barriers and consider booking a consult today.
