Bike accidents occur when a bike and its rider is hit by a moving motor vehicle or a part of it, or if the rider falls from the bike.<\/p>\n
Many injuries are sustained from falling with an outstretched hand. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are an estimated 600,000 emergency department visits due to bicycle-related injuries, every year. The most common injuries are those to the extremities, especially the arms and wrists.<\/p>\n
Injuries related to riding a bicycle are related to either chronic overuse disorders or are a result of acute, traumatic injuries from falling off their bike or being struck. Many injuries occur as a result of riding and falling at high speeds, on and off road.<\/p>\n
Injuries involving the hand, wrist, and elbow include:<\/p>\n
Symptoms from an injury in one area may radiate to another and may be difficult for the rider to sort out for themself. Patients who experience acute or recurring pain while biking should seek medical attention.<\/p>\n
Symptoms may include:<\/p>\n
Biking injuries typically present as chronic wrist pain, grip weakness, and\/or restriction of wrist or finger and elbow movements from falls or heavy vibrations and bumps off-road. Fractures may also be associated with tenderness in the affected area.<\/p>\n
Most pisiform fractures are a result of falling onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH injuries). However, these fractures may occur alone or associated with other injuries.<\/p>\n
Radiograph of the affected region are useful in diagnosing biking injuries. An X-ray image can usually confirm displaced and non-displaced fractures, which will determine whether or not manipulation or surgical intervention will be required. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required to grade ligamentous injuries. <\/p>\n
Sometimes a CT scan is helpful to evaluate complex multi-fragment fractures.<\/p>\n
Treatment for biking injuries generally involves temporary bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, and hand therapy. Patients with mild injuries may continue to cycle after receiving clearance while optimizing the ergonomics of their bicycle, ranging from seat height, handlebar thickness, aero bars and wearing padded gloves.<\/p>\n
In some cases, a period of rest with refraining from cycling is required to injuries to heal. Severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatment may benefit from surgery.<\/p>\n
Treatment for biking injuries generally involves temporary bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, and hand therapy. <\/p>\n
Patients with mild injuries may continue to cycle after receiving clearance while optimizing the ergonomics of their bicycle, ranging from seat height, handlebar thickness, aero bars and wearing padded gloves.<\/p>\n
In more severe biking injuries where surgical intervention is an option, careful evaluation for diagnosis and treatment options is always performed. <\/p>\n
Simple fractures and sprains are often immobilized for an appropriate time period. <\/p>\n
Fractures with misaligned or unstable fragments are good candidates for closed reduction or surgery to optimize function and comfort long and short term.<\/p>\n
Early signs of hand injury while biking are numbness or tingling in the fingers or palms, pain, swelling, and joint stiffness. In order to avoid acute or chronic injury while biking, there are a few guidelines to consider:<\/p>\n
These preventative methods include:<\/p>\n
Most injuries will resolve quickly with conservative treatment methods. Injuries requiring surgical intervention may require an immobilization period followed by rehab.<\/p>\n
Depending on the type and severity of their injury, patients may need to participate in a physical therapy program to maximize mobility and strength.<\/p>\n