Bicycling is a type of aerobic exercise that can help burn calories and improve physical endurance. Like most forms of exercise, excess bicycling can lead to sore muscles, especially in the calves. Although cramps and pulled muscle fibers are the likely cause of soreness in the calves during and after bicycling, a more serious condition, known as peripheral artery disease, may also cause pain in this area.
Cramps and Strains
The gastrocnemius muscles, commonly called calf muscles, are one of the most likely groups of muscles to experience cramping. Cramps occur when the muscles contract involuntarily. Bicyclists are more likely to get cramps when starting or resuming a workout routine after a period of inactivity. Overexertion is a common cause of muscle strain that occurs when the fibers in muscles experience small tears. Cramping generally comes on suddenly and may last up to 15 minutes, while muscle strains can cause discomfort and pain for several days or weeks, depending on the extent of tissue damage.
Prevention
The best way to avoid both muscle cramps and muscle strains in the calf muscles is to warm up and stretch your muscles prior to bicycling. Walking briskly or running slowly for a few minutes before you get on your bike are good ways to prepare your calf muscles. A stretch that targets your calf muscles involves standing with your palms against a wall, placing one foot behind and straightening the knee to elongate the calf muscle. Pushing your upper body toward the wall while pressing your heels firmly to the floor will help stretch the calf muscle. As with any workout regimen, starting your cycling routine slowly and working up gradually as your strength and endurance increases will help condition your muscles, and minimize the risk of muscle strains and cramps.
Treatment
Ease a muscle cramp by first stopping your activity. Gently massage the cramping muscle with your hands, stretching it at the same time to help ease the contraction. Applying heat to a tight muscle can provide relief. The RICE treatment can help heal pulled muscles. This home treatment involves resting your calves, placing ice on the sore area, compressing the calf with an elastic bandage and elevating it above your heart. Severe strains may require medical attention. Contact your doctor if experience acute pain or if the pain lasts longer than four or five days.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease involves arterial blockage in the extremities. This can cause pain in the calves during bicycling. This type of pain usually disappears after resting for about five minutes. With this condition, you may notice calf pain while participating in activities other than just bicycling, such as walking up stairs. Other symptoms may include numbness, changes in skin color and feelings of coldness. Seek medical attention if you believe your calf pain is due to peripheral artery disease.
