Pain from cycling may simply be due to overexertion or a lack of a warmup regimen, but it can also be due to improper form or using a bike that doesn't fit. If the latter is the case, pain can sometimes lead to injury. Taking some simple precautions may help avoid the pain, as well the possibility of damaging the joints or muscles.
Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness
A common occurrence in any form of exercise, delayed-onset muscle soreness, or DOMS, is characterized by pain that sets in 24 to 48 hours after exercise and disappears after three to seven days. It can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, stiffness, muscle tenderness and loss of strength. DOMS is typically associated with eccentric movement -- the resistance of the muscles against lengthening. Exercising while you are experiencing DOMS has not been found to cause damage, according to researches at the University of New Mexico, although pain may continue. Warming up the muscles by moving and stretching them can help avoid DOMS.
Muscle Cramps
Cramps are most common when you use your muscles beyond their usual limit. The pain of cramps is often experienced after a long endurance ride, and is characterized by an intense, active contraction of the muscles. Although there is not a consensus on what causes cramps, staying hydrated, especially with a sports drink that contains electrolytes if the weather is hot and humid, can help. A warmup routine before, during and after exercise that includes light stretching can also help avoid cramps.
Injury
If the pain comes and goes on a chronic basis, an underlying injury is a possible cause. The leg contains many ligaments, bones, tendons and muscles that are subject to stretching, tearing and wear from overuse, and this can happen in varying degrees. The underlying problem could be exacerbated by the motion of the cycling and can possibly lead to more severe pain and damage if left untreated. If the pain is consistently in one area and is worse with specific movements, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Considerations
A common underlying issue that leads to pain is having a bicycle that is not right for your body. Correct bike setup is important to avoid an injury and to get the best from your performance. A bike that doesn't fit can create bad posture and improper movement that can lead to injury. For the best results, consider consulting a professional cyclist to determine the right bike and form. Doing so could help prevent both pain and injury.
References
- University of New Mexico; Treating and Preventing DOMS; Johndavid Maes and Len Kravitz, Ph.D.; April, 2003
- Harris Cyclery; Bicycling and Pain; Sheldon Brown; Oct., 2010
- Cycling Performance Tips: Exercise Induced Muscle Pain, Soreness, and Cramps
- Brian Mac Sports Coach: Cycling - Importance Of Bike Set-Up
