If you’re a cyclist who's experiencing back pain, a chiropractor can provide much-needed relief. In Fairview, CA, you can visit the Kosak Chiropractic Center for all your chiropractic needs. Dr. Michael Wilson is a licensed chiropractor who's been servicing the Fairfield and Vacaville communities for many years. Dr. Wilson has a “whole person” approach, which means that he goes beyond treating his patients’ symptoms by assessing all areas of their lives. He also believes in providing his patients with useful information. Learning why cycling can cause lower back pain is the first step in your healing process.
Why Does Cycling Cause Lower Back Pain?
Although cycling, when compared to other sports, has a relatively low injury rate, many cyclists suffer from lower back pain. The main reason for this is the hunched position of cyclists, especially if they spend a long time in the saddle. Even though they’re not sitting in front of a laptop or gaming console for hours, cyclists are still in a seated position, which causes a lot of tension in the lower back muscles. Other contributing factors that increase the prevalence of back pain among cyclists include an incorrect saddle height, handlebars that are placed too far forward, and insufficient core muscle strength.
How To Prevent Lower Back Pain
Fortunately, there are steps that cyclists can take to prevent or minimize back pain. These include:
- A properly fitted bike: If you’re constantly suffering from back pain after a cycle, take your bike to a pro to check whether your bicycle is properly fitted to your body. You need to check the crank arm length and also the seat height and placement.
- Strength building: Stronger core muscles promote stability and correct movements in the saddle, which, in turn, help to prevent lower back pain. Strengthening your glutes will also go a long way in preventing back pain.
- Correct posture: Although it’s important to think about your posture when you’re cycling, you should also maintain proper posture when you’re out of the saddle. Avoid slumping at a desk at work and keep your posture upright in general.
- Stretching: Doing stretching exercises before and after a cycle is a great way to prevent or alleviate back pain. Two tight spots you can focus on are the quads and the hips.
How Can a Chiropractor Help?
Another way to ensure that your back pain stays at bay is to visit a chiropractor, who will restore the range of motion in your back through spinal manipulation and chiropractic mobilization. Book your appointment with Dr. Wilson at the Kosak Chiropractic Clinic today by visiting their website or calling the clinic at (707) 426-1111.