Numb Hands Whilst Cycling?
WHAT COULD IT BE?
This is the most common complaint of amateur riders.
Compression of the ulnar nerve at Guyon’s Canal is due to excessive pressure on the hands at the handlebars – this results in numbing and tingling and sometimes pain.
The median nerve can also be compressed at the carpal tunnel as a result of excessive wrist flexion or extension at the handle bars. Although this could be a bike fit issue, if the reach of the bike is acceptable, it may be a problem with your body position.
Check that you are riding with relaxed hands and slightly bent elbows. Riding with your elbows straight places a lot of weight in your hands and on your handlebars.
Check your wrist alignment – if there is a bend in your wrist, this could reduce both blood and nerve circulation.
Engage your core – reminding your abs to wake up will take some pressure off your hands!
Want some simple exercises to help treat and prevent ulnar and median nerve compression? Head on over to our Instagram (@cah_physiotherapy) and Facebook pages.
Call 9873 2770 or book online: https://bookings.nookal.com/bookings/location/39XKS