Wrist pain is an unfortunate, yet common, occurrence associated with cycling. Because a cyclist uses the wrists to control the bicycle, it is possible to experience overuse wrist injuries, particularly a condition known as handlebar palsy. Handlebar palsy can cause severe pain and numbness in the wrist and hand, but can be prevented and treated by taking several key precautions. Consult your doctor if wrist pain persists or worsens.
Wrist Pain Significance
The most common cause of wrist pain due to bicycling is handlebar palsy, which also is known as ulnar neuropathy. This condition occurs due to inflammation of the ulnar nerve, which, the Sports Injury Bulletin website explains, runs the length of the forearm. When you are cycling, your wrists and hands absorb some of the shock from vibrations to the handlebars as you go over natural lumps and bumps in terrain. Improper positioning or fitting of your bicycle also can lead to ulnar nerve pain because the wrist is not properly positioned on the bicycle. Symptoms of this condition include pain or tingling in the wrists, particularly in the middle or outside of the wrist and forearm.
Bicycle Fit Concerns
If you do not typically ride over bumpy terrain, your wrist pain could be due to an improperly fitted seat and/or handlebars. Ask a bicycle fit specialist if your handlebars are too low compared to your seat height --- a common mistake that can lead to wrist pain. If you feel you are stretching to reach your handlebars or that your seat is pointed downward, these also can be fit issues related to wrist pain. Check your hand positioning to see if you are putting too much stress and pressure on your pinkie finger, which can lead to handlebar neuropathy.
Treatment
If you do experience wrist pain following a cycling session, ice the affected area and take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication --- such as ibuprofen --- to reduce inflammation and swelling in the wrist, the Hughston Health Alert website suggests. Stretching the wrists back and forth, then circling the hands around the wrist to relieve muscle stress and tension. Make an effort to change your hand position frequently throughout your bicycle ride to reduce overall pressure placed on your hands. Taking breaks throughout your cycling session to stretch the hands also can help.
Warning
Wrist pain that goes untreated or does not subside with over-the-counter solutions can lead to or indicate a more serious condition. Wrist pain can lead to a loss of sensation in the hands and arms. If you experience difficulty controlling the muscles in the fingers and arms, this can be an indicator your wrist pain from cycling is something more serious. Seek medical attention so your physician can evaluate your wrist and recommend solutions for to your particular condition.
