*Did you know that Physiotherapists are experts in assessing flexibility, strength and a person’s individual measurements. It can make a bike set up much better if an individual’s body type can be assessed and taken into consideration before they are set up on their bikes.
*Some common cyclist problems that can lead to injury:
1. hip flexor muscle tightness – as these have attachments to the lumbar spine this can sometimes cause lower back pain
2. hip muscle weakness – this can cause hip joint impingement problems
3. thoracic or middle spine stiffness – this can cause pain in the middle back region and often neck problems and headaches
4.core stability dysfunction – this can lead to hip and lower back problems
These problems can be there as a result of a poor bike set up or may have been there before you got on the bike. Assessment and a management programme from your physiotherapist will help get you on the right track.
*Some cyclists believe that a bike fit is forever. This is not true as a cyclist’s body adapts to the bike set up with time and increased training. Conversely with de-conditioning and irregular training it makes adaptation to the set up more difficult. This may increase chances of sustaining niggles and injuries.
*Did you know that a bike seat can degrade over time? This can cause an increase in compression of 3-4 mms over a year. This can make a big difference with your overall set up.
*So: It is important to get you and your bike checked on a regular basis
{ Comments on this entry are closed }
