Causes of knee pain while cycling

Cycling knee pain is usually related to incorrect posture, overuse or insufficient muscle strength. Adjusting riding posture, strengthening leg muscle exercises, proper rest and physical therapy can effectively relieve pain, and painkillers can be taken if necessary.

1. Incorrect posture: When riding a bicycle, improper seat height, inaccurate pedal position or incorrect body posture will increase the load on the knees and cause pain. It is recommended to adjust the seat height so that the legs are slightly bent when pedaling; the pedal position should make the sole of the foot parallel to the pedal, avoiding excessive forward or backward leaning; keep the body upright when riding to reduce the pressure on the knees.

2. Overuse: Long-term or high-intensity riding may cause knee strain, especially the soft tissue and cartilage around the knee joint. It is recommended to develop a reasonable riding plan to avoid riding for too long or too high an intensity at a time; take a proper rest to give the knee joint time to recover; use ice to relieve inflammation and pain.

3. Insufficient muscle strength: Insufficient or unbalanced leg muscle strength will cause extra pressure on the knees when riding, especially the quadriceps and hamstrings. It is recommended to carry out targeted strength training, such as squats, lunges and leg presses, to enhance the balance of the front and back thigh muscles; stretching exercises to improve the flexibility and stability of the knee joints.

4. Other factors: Knee pain may also be related to the type of bicycle, road conditions, cycling shoes or protective gear. Choose the right type of bicycle, such as mountain bike or road bike, and adjust it according to the riding environment; use professional cycling shoes to provide good foot support; wear knee protectors to reduce joint vibration and friction.

The specific causes of knee pain while cycling vary from person to person, and it is recommended to take appropriate measures based on the actual situation. If the pain persists or worsens, you should seek medical attention in time to rule out serious injuries or diseases, such as meniscus injuries, ligament tears, or arthritis. Professional diagnosis and treatment will help you recover as soon as possible and ensure the safety and comfort of cycling.