Thousands of people each year turn to cycling as a means to stay fit through low-impact activity. As cyclists train to make self-improvements or enter competitions, chances for cycling related injuries may increase. An experienced California doctor for cyclists can help the emerging athlete to the die-hard triathlete with any medical concerns they may have.
Cycling Related Injuries
Injuries can affect even the strongest athlete’s cycling abilities. Beginners, who do not properly utilize the correct equipment or train without proper coaching, may have chances for increased health problems especially with knees, ankles, and feet. Improper form will put extra stress on various regions of the body, which can create injuries.
- Knee osteoarthritis is the slow degeneration of the cartilage and bone within the knee. Osteoarthritis can usually be found in older athletes or cyclists. The knee joint gradually wears down from years of use. Treatment will vary depending on the stage of degeneration. Anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injection, physical therapy, and surgery are among the treatment options.
- Plantar fasciitis supports the arch of a cyclist’s foot. When the foot becomes strained, the area can become swollen and inflamed creating a significant amount of pain. The stiffness and swelling can create problems for cyclists.
- Achilles tendonitis is created when the tendon running from the tibia to the heel becomes inflamed. The cause is usually directly related to overuse. A sudden increase in training can contribute to the inflammation. If the Achilles tendon becomes torn or ruptured, surgery is required.
- A fall off a bicycle can leave the cyclist with traumatic injuries. Torn ligaments or tendons may be a result. Broken or fractured bones are also a common injury from falling off a bicycle. Traumatic injuries can lead to future health problems with degenerated arthritis or other joint problems.
Non-surgical and surgical options are usually available for each type of cyclist injury.
Non-surgical Options
Each injury will have different areas of pain concentration. To reduce the pain and inflammation, non-surgical options may be utilized.
- Apply ice packs to the region to help reduce the inflammation.
- Restrict movement until you receive further instructions from a health care professional.
- Use braces or pads to aid in the support of the injured area.
- Over the counter or prescribed pain medication may be taken.
- The use of physical or occupational therapy to regain full range of motion in the injured area.
Surgical Options
When all the non-surgical options have been exhausted or the trauma to the injured area is too severe, surgery may be the next step in the treatment. A California doctor for cyclists will know when surgery should be implemented. Surgery may require extra recovery time from injuries. The result may be resuming cycling activities without pain and inflammation.
Best California Doctor for Cyclists
An experienced California doctor for cyclists can provide individualized treatment to ensure an optimal outcome for the situation. Dr. Howard Marans can give a complete explanation of all the treatments available for cyclists’ injuries, including non-surgical and surgical options. Dr. Marans would be more than happy to discuss the cyclist’s orthopedic health needs and concerns with you. His office welcomes PPO and will work with all other insurance companies to give the best treatment available. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.