Cycling is a low-impact sport that involves both flat terrain and hills. This sport generally spares the knees since it is low-impact, but it is repetitive, which can result in overuse knee injuries. The knee is the most common joint to experience overuse injuries in cyclists, and it is estimated that about 40 to 60 percent of cyclists experience knee pain at some point, according to the Ohio State University Medical Center. All types of cyclists, including those who ride mountain bikes, are at risk.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band is a fibrous connective tissue that is responsible for abducting the hip and extending the knee joint. It inserts into the outer shin bone and runs down the outer thigh. This condition is characterized by the iliotibial band becoming irritated. While this condition is most common in runners, cycling-related overuse may also cause this condition. Symptoms may include outer knee pain, iliotibial band tightness, hip abduction weakness, pain when the knee is extended or flexed and gluteal area trigger points.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a catchall term for pain that occurs around the front part of the knee, or the kneecap. The conditions that this term often refers to include patellofemoral malalignment, anterior knee pain syndrome and chondromalacia patella. Overuse or excessive training can cause this condition. A dull, aching pain in the area of the kneecap is the most common symptom. The pain may occur when you are taking the stairs, squatting, kneeling or sitting with knees bent, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Knee Tendon Bursitis
Knee tendon bursitis is a condition characterized by inflammation that typically results from overuse. The pes anserine bursa is affected. This bursa is located between the three hamstring muscle tendons and the shinbone at the inner area of the knee. Inner knee pain may gradually develop. This pain may also be located about two to three inches under the knee in the center of the shin bone, according the the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. If you are taking the stairs or exercising, you may notice an increase in pain.
Patella Tendinosis
This condition affects the patellar tendon, which is located under the kneecap and is responsible for attaching the tibia and the quadriceps. This is an overuse injury that occurs as a result of chronic degeneration. Chronic pain, flexibility loss and weakness in the knee may occur.
References
- Chester Knee Clinic: Cycling Knee Problems
- Sports Injury Clinic: Iliotibial Band Syndrome (Runners knee)
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain)
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Knee Tendon Bursitis
- Ohio State University Medica Center: Common Cycling Overuse Concerns
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