Bicycle Seat Neuropathy – Sports Medicine
Bicycle seat neuropathy, according to sports medicine professionals, is a common injury among cyclists because of their prolonged periods spent on their bicycles. While researchers have yet to determine the exact cause of the injury, several theories have been proposed including either the neurologic or vascular compression on the pudendal nerve as well as the narrow bicycle seat design itself. Studies have shown that wider bicycle seats decrease the pressure on the perineal area, thus, possibly decreasing the risks for neuropathy.
The typical symptom of bicycle seat neuropathy is numbness in the area, with many complaining of impotence. While the amount of time spent cycling and the start of the symptoms is variable in nature, cyclists who engage in multi-day rides over long distances apparently have higher risks. But emphasis must be made that even spending prolonged periods on a stationary bicycle can result in bicycle seat neuropathy.
During consultations, cyclists who complain of numbness in the area with a specialist at any of the Healthpointe clinics (such as the clinics at Anaheim, near Fullerton, Placentia, Villa Park, Buena Park, Cypress, Cerritos, and Garden Grove) will usually undergo physical examinations and answer questions about medical history. Questions can include:
- History of illnesses, such as diabetes, endocrine diseases, and perineal trauma, and cancers in the testicles, prostate, and abdomen (i.e., to determine other possible causes for the neuropathy)
- Onset as well as the duration, location and severity of the symptoms (i.e., mild to severe symptoms including urinary incontinence)
- Duration and length of the rides as well as changes in bicycle position, setup, and configuration or in training volume
These steps are necessary in order to ensure that the symptoms are actually related to bicycle neuropathy, and not to other possible causes like testicular cancer. If possible, be sure to keep a journal of the above-mentioned matters so that the doctor’s questions can readily be answered. Your answers will contribute to a definitive diagnosis especially when other diagnostic tools, such as laboratory tests and imaging scans are used.
When diagnosed appropriately, your doctor can recommend a rehabilitation program for the treatment of acute bicycle seat neuropathy. The treatment plan can include recreational therapy (e.g., changing the seat height and riding position), changing the seat itself, as well as taking breaks from cycling. You should discuss your options with your sports coach and doctor.
Come to any of the Healthpointe clinics, such as the one at Colton near Rialto, Bloomington, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highgrove, and Grand Terrace, for treatment of bicycle seat neuropathy, among other sports injuries.
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Colton, which is conveniently located by Rialto, Bloomington, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highgrove, and Grand Terrace. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.