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Bicycling is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re a recreational rider or a daily commuter, protecting your hands and wrists is crucial. Dr. Sanj Kakar, an orthopedic surgeon at Mayo Clinic specializing in hands and wrists, offers practical tips to prevent biking injuries.
Regardless of your experience level, certain injuries are common among cyclists.
“The first type of injury is traumatic, such as when someone falls off a bike,” explains Dr. Kakar.
Common traumatic injuries include wrist fractures.
“We also see overuse injuries. For example, pressing on the brakes for extended periods, squeezing hard, and putting pressure on the palm can cause the hands to fall asleep, leading to numbness and tingling,” Dr. Kakar says.
This could indicate carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that should not be ignored.
“If you experience numbness and tingling in your fingers, it’s something to take seriously because it could be carpal tunnel syndrome,” Dr. Kakar warns. The numbness and tingling can become permanent and result in muscle strength loss.
To prevent bike injuries, Dr. Kakar suggests, “There are simple preventive measures you can take. Thicker grips can reduce the need to squeeze as hard, and bike gloves can help by putting your wrist in a better position and reducing pressure on your palm.”
While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can enhance your safety by always wearing a bike helmet.
