Tendinitis, or tendonitis, is the inflammation of a tendon. It is more commonly known as tennis elbow, but it can impact any tendon in your body as a result of overuse or an injury. Treatments are available to alleviate pain associated with tendinitis, but you may be an avid cyclist or interested in continuing your physical activity while living with this condition. Determining the safety of any exercise is conditional based upon your treatment plan and the severity of your specific case.
Symptoms
Tendinitis impacts your tendons, which attach your muscles to the bones. It causes inflammation, irritation and pain. According to MayoClinic.com, it most commonly occurs in the shoulders, elbows, wrists and heels, but it can occur virtually anywhere in your body on any tendon. You may develop tendinitis after sustaining an injury, by overusing of the same tendon or as a result of aging and your tendons becoming less elastic.
Treatment
The type of treatment used is dependent upon the severity of tendinitis. Immediate treatment aims to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation with over the counter medications such as aspirin. Your doctor may give you a steroid injection and start you on a physical therapy program. According to MedlinePlus, physical therapy stretches, and strengthens the muscle and tendon to restore normal function. If the tendon becomes torn, your doctor may use surgery to repair the tissue.
Bike Features
Riding a bike, on an indoor stationary bike or outside, can put pressure and strain on healing tendons. When you ride, you engage your entire body and expose your body to any shock that the bike does not absorb. You use your legs to pedal, which engages your entire lower body. Depending on the style of bike you ride, your posture and upper body will also have pressure applied on various joints. While you hold onto the handlebars, you are typically leaned over and adding weight onto your wrists. This positioning also puts your back at an angle and puts pressure on your shoulders.
Significance
Determining whether you should ride a bike while experiencing tendinitis ultimately depends on your doctor's recommendations. If the inflammation is minor and you have full range of motion, your doctor may approve you for short sessions of bike riding. If your tendinitis is located in your ankle, knee or wrists joints and you are not yet in physical therapy because the pain and swelling are still severe, your doctor may temporarily ban you from riding. When your doctor allows you to resume cycling, start slowly. Ensure you are riding in a safe and comfortable position and using the appropriate attire. Reengaging in physical activity will help to prevent stiffness and loss of function.
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