Southern California | Bicycle Attorneys

Bike injuries can throw you off your game.
Call our office today. Let us advocate for you.

Southern California | Bicycle Attorneys

Bike injuries can throw you off your game.
Call our office today. Let us advocate for you.

Bicycle Injury Law And
Advocacy Is What We Do

3 ways to combat cycling arm

Cycling should be exhilarating without putting your health at risk. Still, even on short rides, you may feel pain, numbness or tingling in your lower arms, wrists or hands. If you do not take steps to prevent it, “cycling arm” may lead to long-term damage, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Cycling arm happens when you place too much prolonged pressure on the nerves in your hands, arms and wrists. The following three tips may help you combat the condition.

1. Choose the right bike

To stop cycling arm, you must remove pressure on the joints in your wrists and elbows. Choosing the right bike for your height and weight is key. Before investing in a bicycle, be sure it fits you. Taking the bike for a test ride is always a good idea.

2. Adjust your bicycle

Even if you pick the right bicycle, it may not fit you perfectly. Luckily, with most bikes, height adjustment is a quick and easy process.

If you are not sure what height is best for your seat and handlebars, request a professional bike fitting at your neighborhood shop. Also, if you have pain or numbness from a rough ride, tuning up your bicycle should be a priority.

3. Wear an arm brace

Choosing the right bike and adjusting it to fit you may not completely alleviate your cycling arm symptoms. Adding a wrist or arm brace to your existing safety gear may be the solution. If that thought makes you uncomfortable, you may want to try a pair of riding gloves first.

While you can take steps to prevent cycling arm, nerve damage is a serious medical concern. If you are regularly wearing a brace to stay comfortable on your bike, you may want to consider talking to your doctor about your symptoms.

Photo of Max Draitser
FindLaw Network