Cycling has always been a popular means of entertainment and a hobby among the younger lot. With tingling bells, fairy lights and ribbons hanging over every little girls bicycle and horns and action figures plastered over every little boys bicycle, moving on from a four wheeler to a two wheeler is pretty much, a rites of passage for every minor! However, the popularity of bicycling has exceeded over the limitations of Minnie minors and the younger school going lot and it has now become a full-fledged sport along with being a rather inexpensive mode of transportation in today’s pricey world!

Cycling is an amazing anaerobic exercise and houses many benefits in terms of fitness. However, it is fair to say; with an increase in the popularity commanded by cycling there has also been an increase in cyclist injuries. Let’s review some of the most common cycling injuries and see if you can relate to them!

Contusions and Sprains

Contusions, that is bruises, and sprains happen to be some of the most common cycling injuries. They can be easily healed in little or no time with the help of icing, rest, elevation and compression. Even medication can be used to help lower inflammation and contain the contusions and relieve the sprains. However, if these measures do not help with the sprains and you have experienced a rather serious ligament tear maybe, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately!

Abrasions and Lacerations

Abrasions and lacerations are yet another very common cycling injury. However, they are rather minor in magnitude. Most cases can be easily taken care of at home with proper bandaging and usage of healing ointments for the wounds. In case, the wound is much deeper and has been contaminated by dust or dirt, consulting a doctor can be a wise choice!

Facial and Head Related Injuries

Almost every one faces some sort of a facial or head injury at some point or the other during their cycling times, making it another very common cycling injury! Mostly it is kids who experience these common cycling injuries, as they are less careful and mindful of the situation when experiencing a fall. Using a helmet is a must while cycling so that the impact of the fall can be consumed to some extent by the helmet protecting the head. In case of such an injury, if you experience any dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness or severe headaches, please visit a doctor ASAP.

Fractures

When it comes to cyclist injuries, fractures are yet another very common cycling injury. Fractures in the hands, wrists, shoulder or forearm are the most common types of fractures with cyclist injuries. These fractures usually end up occurring as a result of trying to prevent falls with the help of outstretched arms. The impact of the fall can come down heavy on any of the above mentioned areas and lead to immediate pain followed by swelling, which is an indication of a fracture. If the rider lands directly on the shoulder, he can very well experience a dislocation or separation of the joint between the clavicle and the shoulder blade, which can be immensely painful!