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Cycling and Achilles tendonitis

Millions of commuters across the UK have turned to cycling to avoid public transport during the coronavirus pandemic. It’s also a great way to get exercise on the way to work and reduce air pollution in our towns and cities. As lockdown eases, we are seeing plans across the UK for more cycle paths – hoping to encourage people of all ages to continue using their bikes to get around and stay fit. Often aches, pains and injuries when cycling occur because of your body position on the bike - incorrect bike set-up, or through overuse / inappropriate training, which places great strain on joints and tissues. Good 'bike fit' can help to prevent injuries, reduce long term pressure on your muscles and joint and improve your cycling efficiency and speed. Common cycling injuries include:

  • Shoulder Pain

  • Back Pain

  • Knee Injuries

  • Hamstring Strain

Achilles Tendonitis: The Achilles tendon is a long band of tissue that runs down the back of your calf and connects to your heel bone. With cycling, this injury is typically seen due to overuse of the calf muscles. The injury and pain often occur when you start riding again after a long break, or when you ride for long periods without gradual strengthening or warming up. Usually described as an overuse injury, achilles tendonitis can cause inflammation, swelling and pain. You may want to consider easing back on training for a short period and use gentle stretching exercises to strengthen your calf muscles. Icing the area after exercise can also assist with easing pain. Using a simple 'Y' strip Kinesio Taping application, like the one in the picture below, may help to provide your muscle with support (without restricting your range of motion) and reduce swelling. You can also use a short strip of horizontal tape over the area where you are experiencing pain. The Achilles Taping application can be cut easily from a roll of Kinesio Tape (http://bit.ly/2ZwmVcX). A trained Kinesio therapist can also help to assess your injury and advise on application.




If your injury isn't caused by overuse, check your bike fit. A saddle that is too high can also cause the calf muscles to contract more often than necessary.

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