Bicycling is often a way for runners and other athletes to exercise while recovering from knee injuries, but sometimes bicycling can also cause or exacerbate pain in the knee. Generally, anterior knee pain from bicycling is caused by overuse, equipment changes or improper fit and, sometimes, your individual physiology and condition. Seeing a physician can help you pinpoint the cause of your knee pain and determine whether you have an underlying condition that needs medical treatment.
Basic Relief
Most common pains associated with biking are caused by overuse and overload of the knee area. The first steps in pain management include rest and icing the knee area. Begin with those treatments and see if the pain persists. If it does, consult a doctor to determine the cause of your pain. Do not attempt exercises, massages or stretches to relieve pain without first consulting a physician or physical therapist.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a condition in which multiple factors, such as overload, biomechanical problems or muscular dysfunction, cause the knee area to become painful, according to a 2007 report in the journal "American Family Physicial." The pain usually occurs after cycling and will be in the center of your patella and directly behind it. The researchers state that if you have this condition, physical therapy and stretches may help relieve pain. Stretching the illiotal band, hip, hamstring, calf and especially the quadriceps may help. Alternate rest with periodic walking and icing the knee for 10 to 20 minutes after activity. A physical therapist may be able to tape the knee for you, aiding in pain relief in the short-term.
Chondromalacia Patella
In chondromalacia patella, the cartilage behind your kneecap is damaged by overuse or injury. You may experience a grinding sensation that worsens when you squat, climb or sit for long periods of time. According to MayoClinic.com, rest is the best first step in treating chondromalacia patella. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen may help. You may also need to see a physical therapist to receive a treatment plan. A physical therapist may guide you in rehabilitation exercises, taping, icing, knee braces and knee-friendly activities. In the rare case that these measure do not work for you, kneecap realignment surgery and arthroscopy may be needed.
Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome
Iliotibial band friction syndrome is caused by inflammation of the iliotibial band. This can be cause by repetitive motion and is not easily treatable, according to Razib Khaund and Sharon H. Flynn in "American Family Physician." Khaund and Flynn report that treatment for this condition needs to prevent friction when the kneecap moves during regular activity. Massage, stretching and strengthening with the help of a physical therapist can help. Steroid injections may help in the short term with knees that are swollen or painful days after beginning treatment. A physical therapist can help guide you through treatment without causing more damage to the area.
Arthritis in Knee
Arthritis may be causing pain in your knees when bicycling, according to Medline Plus. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons suggests seeing a physical therapist to help manage arthritis pain. Weight loss, making sure your form on your bicycle is correct and bracing the knee can help minimize arthritis pain. Icing and heating the knee also can relieve pain. Drug treatments for arthritis of the knee include steroid injections and oral medications. Alternative therapies like acupuncture may also be beneficial.
References
- Cycling Performance Tips; Knee Pain and Bicycling; Chad Asplund and Patrick St. Pierre; April 2004
- "American Family Physician"; Management of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome; Sameer Dixit, et al.; January 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Chondromalacia Patella; August 2010
- "American Family Physician"; Iliotibial Band Syndrome: A Common Source of Knee Pain; Razib Khaund and Sharon H. Flynn; April 2005
- Medline Plus; Anterior Knee Pain; June 2010
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; Arthritis of the Knee; October 2007
