Bicycle Seat Neuropathy Follow-up

Updated: Apr 26, 2021
  • Author: John M Martinez, MD; Chief Editor: Craig C Young, MD  more...
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Follow-up

Return to Play

Return to play is based upon resolution of the athlete's symptoms. The cyclist should be cautioned to change his or her position on the bike (eg, ride with hands on the top of the handlebars vs having hands down in the drops or riding with aerobars [tri-bars]). Also encourage the patient to stand up intermittently to relieve pressure or to stop cycling temporarily until the symptoms resolve. Changing the type and shape of bicycle seat used may also be helpful; elevation of the nose of the bicycle seat may worsen the condition, as more pressure is placed upon the Alcock canal and the pudendal nerve.

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Prevention

Prevention of bicycle seat neuropathy includes riding a bike that is properly fit by a trained professional, as well as changing positions frequently on the bike seat or standing intermittently to relieve perineal pressure. Additionally, newer designs in bicycle seats allow for the reduction of perineal pressure by providing a bicycle seat with the middle portion cut away.

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