Even though biking itself is considered to be a form of recreation that has a low impact on the knees, mountain biking and knee problems often seem to go hand-in-hand. Of course, while rock-hopping, root dodging and stream fording are many times the causes of knee injuries while mountain biking, other factors, whose source is not as obvious, may play a role in knee injuries or knee pain. While it may be necessary to consult a physician if knee pain persists or worsens, there may be some quick and easy fixes that may help alleviate nagging knee pains and problems.
Some of the factors related to mountain biking and knee problems include: the biking routine, the bike itself and the physical makeup of the rider. Knee pain is generally based on a combination of these three factors. Listed below are some ways that each of the factors relate to knee problems:
• The Bike Routine - riding habits; change in distance, duration and intensity of conditioning
• The Bike - saddle height and setback; crank length; foot positioning; use of new equipment
• The Rider - asymmetrical leg length; inelastic, weak or tight muscles; previous injuries
One of the major issues involved with mountain biking and knee problems is that the bike is not fitted to the rider. Many times a rider will try to adjust to the frame of the mountain bike. In fact, the mountain bike frame should fit the frame of the rider. Adjusting the position of the seat, the height of the saddle and the crank length may help relieve some of the issues related to knee pain. As with anything else, if the fit is not right then problems will inevitably result. Many times after the bike is adjusted to better fit the rider, the rider will feel relief from the pain immediately.
Listening to the body is key in any recreational activity. Since pain is the body's way of alerting the individual that something is wrong, it is important to heed these warnings. Often there are simple ways to deal with knee problems related to mountain biking. Perhaps a decrease in intensity or distance of the ride may be necessary or simply ensuring that proper stretching occurs before and after the ride. However, there are times when the issues related to knee problems cannot be fixed by adjusting the bike or proper stretching. It is possible that damaged or torn ligaments, cartilage or tendons may be the culprit. A physician can prescribe the best method to remedy these situations.
Prevention of knee problems is always easier than the treatment of knee problems. Experience and conditioning are important in any recreational activity and mountain biking is no exception. Be aware of the difficulty of the trail and the physical ability and agility required by the trial, have properly fitted riding equipment, and do not forget the knee pads. This will lead to a more enjoyable ride with less pain both during and after the ride.
0 ความคิดเห็น:
แสดงความคิดเห็น