Cyclists told these symptoms could lead to them needing surgery

Cyclists Warned of Symptoms Leading to Surgery

Cyclists are being cautioned not to ignore symptoms of a common condition that could eventually necessitate injections or surgery. An expert in cycling emphasises the importance of taking the condition seriously and seeking prompt treatment as soon as symptoms manifest – or ideally, taking preventive measures from the start. John Vinton, from e-bike manufacturer Aventon Bikes, explains, “Enthusiastic cyclists can experience weakness in their hands, particularly in the ring and little fingers. This is attributed to a serious condition known as ‘cyclist’s palsy,’ a nerve compression injury resulting from prolonged pressure on the hands and fingers. This can lead to enduring sensory disturbances or motor issues.”

Cyclist’s palsy medically stems from sustained wrist bending, strong gripping, weight bearing, and vibrations, which can impede and eventually harm the ulnar nerves passing through the wrist. Neglecting the symptoms arising from this nerve damage may be tempting, especially for passionate cyclists, but understanding the potential long-term health consequences of disregarding this ailment is crucial. John advises, “If you experience numbness or tingling sensations in your hands, or a decrease in grip strength while cycling, take a break until the symptoms subside. When you resume cycling, follow the recommended steps to prevent the recurrence of cyclist’s palsy. Failing to do so puts you at risk of enduring nerve damage.”

Many individuals cycle for enjoyment or transportation needs, leading them to overlook cyclists’ palsy and dismiss it as a minor inconvenience. However, what may start as a mere annoyance could progress to a more severe stage, necessitating corticosteroid injections or surgery. John stresses, “These treatments may prevent you from cycling altogether, so it’s advisable to take a break early on to avoid the need for extensive medical intervention in the future. By taking preventive measures against cyclists’ palsy at an early stage, you can continue pursuing your passion for cycling.”

Preventive Measures for Cyclists’ Palsy
– Adjust bike setup to ensure wrists are slightly above handlebars.
– Use quality padded cycling gloves and/or pad handlebars to reduce vibrations.
– Change hand positions frequently and avoid fully extending or bending wrists.
– Distribute upper body weight across hands on handlebars.
– Maintain high-quality shock absorbers on mountain bikes.
– Angle brake levers downward to reduce wrist extension.
– Regularly stretch neck and perform wrist exercises.

In summary, cyclists are being urged to be proactive in addressing symptoms of cyclist’s palsy to avoid the potential need for injections or surgery. Taking preventive measures and promptly responding to any signs of nerve compression can help cyclists maintain their passion for cycling while safeguarding their long-term health and well-being.