Cycling has been a popular activity since the invention of the bicycle in the 1800s. But over the past few years, bikes have exploded in popularity, with reports of over 47 million riders in the U.S. alone.
While cycling (and exercise in general) is great for one’s mental and physical health, any heavy exertion can lead to some wear and tear throughout the body. Therefore, it’s a good idea for seasoned and amateur cyclists alike to visit their chiropractors regularly in order to stay fit for riding.
What Are Some Common Cycling Injuries?
At first glance, cycling may appear to be an extremely safe exercise choice. After all, biking is low impact and easy to learn for almost everybody. But as is the case with every type of exercise, cycling comes with some level of risk. CDC data shows us that there were nearly 1000 cycling-related deaths in 2015 and over 400,000 cycling-related injuries.
The most common injuries that cyclists experience are from overuse and falls.
Overuse Injuries
When starting out with a new exercise plan, the temptation is often to do way too much. For example, if a person exercised for the first time and loved the feeling she got from it, she may incorrectly assume that doing more exercise is always better.
Unfortunately, this “more is always better” attitude often leads to burnout and overuse injuries.
Cyclists specifically can often experience overuse injuries in the joints and muscles of the lower body. Specifically, a cyclist may suffer pain and dysfunction in any or all of the following areas due to overuse:
- Knees;
- Ankles;
- Calf muscles;
- Quads.
Naturally, there are plenty of other muscles and joints that also may suffer an overuse injury from excessive cycling.
Injuries Due to Falls
If you’re riding a stationary bike, you are unlikely to suffer a fall injury. However, for those who take their bikes out on roads or trails, it is advisable to practice extreme caution.
Falls from a bicycle can result in devastating consequences including, but not limited to the following:
- Concussions;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Broken bones;
- Cuts and scrapes;
- Strains and sprains.
Luckily, in most states, helmet laws prevent riders from using their bike without head protection. This has helped to reduce the severity and number of severe head injuries from bicycle accidents. But sadly, some riders continue to take the risk.
How Can Chiropractors Help Cyclists?
Chiropractors can help cyclists in two main ways: through preventing injuries and through guiding the rehabilitation process after an injury.
Preventative Chiropractic Care for Cyclists
In the world of chiropractic care and medicine, it is always better to prevent an issue from ever developing than to treat said issue after the fact.
Regular chiropractic appointments can help to keep your body fit, strong, and ready to take on the demands of cycling. Your chiropractor can ensure that your body is properly aligned, can perform treatments to address any imbalances, and can prescribe exercise to help your body be as strong as possible, putting you in the best position possible during your rides.
Rehabilitative Chiropractic Care
In life, some injuries just simply can’t be prevented! In these cases, chiropractors are ready to help assess and treat any cycling-related issue which you may be experiencing. Whether your injury was sustained from a fall, overuse, or something else altogether, go see your chiropractor so that you can start on the road to recovery.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Keystone Chiropractic can help you overcome a variety of injuries and pain. Whether you’re a cyclist, walker, or a non-exerciser, we would be thrilled to help you and get you back to the activities you know and love. Book your appointment today.
