04/05/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/05/2021 06:48
Whether you prefer to spin in a studio with music pumping through the speakers or you're a fan of the open road and conquering new trails, cycling is a popular form of exercise.
'Spinning is not the only form of high-intensity exercise that can negatively impact the pelvic floor. Urinary incontinence is common among female athletes, but pelvic floor issues can affect both male and female athletes,' explains Michele Branca, PT, MSPT, a physical therapist with the Bryn Mawr Rehab Outpatient Network, part of Main Line Health.
But pelvic pain can be especially common among cyclists because so much of the sport involves pressure on the areas of your pelvic floor. The results can range from uncomfortable to painful. Symptoms can include pain, numbness, tingling, urinary or fecal incontinence, or pain or difficulty going to the bathroom.
If you're new to cycling or finished a particularly intense ride, these symptoms may be temporary and subside after a day or a few hours. But these symptoms should not persist or occur after every workout.
To relieve pelvic floor pain, fix your form
If you're experiencing pelvic floor pain after a cycling workout, fear not: you don't need to quit your beloved routine. Instead, Branca recommends making changes to your form to relieve pressure on your pelvic floor and make your ride more comfortable:
'Pelvic floor pain is common, but it is not normal. So many people assume that pelvic floor pain is just a normal part of aging but that's not the case. If pelvic pain is affecting your quality of life, talk to your primary care provider or an OB/GYN about your pain. Don't suffer in silence,' urges Branca.
Main Line Health serves patients at hospitals and health centers throughout the western suburbs of Philadelphia. To schedule an appointment with a specialist at Main Line Health, call 1.866.CALL.MLH (225.5654)or use our secure online appointment request form.