Saturday, July 24, 2010

07.24.10 - Cycling

Saturday morning Edson, Ray, Eric and I ride out. We tried to get out on the road as early as possible because people, like myself had to be places (work). After getting only 2 hours sleep we ventured off and attacked the 52. This was my first time attempting that hill.



My heart rate monitor must have been slipping because it looks as if I was barely working...unless I'm that amazing. I like to believe it's the latter.

Another thing to note. The inside part of my knee (medial) has been hurting a lot. Not sure if it's my set up since I've never been professionally fitted for my bike. It all started when I started cycling too is what I noticed. It bothered me I did the LTHR test my knee was hurting after, my recent run and today's ride. Maybe I need new running shoes or maybe I need to adjust my seat.

I checked in with Dr. Web about what it could be.  Here's a couple of things.  It's either a meniscus tear or a medial collateral ligament sprain based upon the swelling and location.

Swelling
Swelling of the knee is common with several different knee problems. When there is swelling immediately after an injury (within an hour), the most common causes are an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament or a fracture of the top of the shin bone. When swelling develops gradually over hours to days, the injury is more likely a tear of the meniscus or a ligament sprain. Swelling that occurs without the presence of a known injury can be due to arthritis (common), gout (less common), or a joint infection (uncommon).

Location of Pain
The location of the pain can be an important part of tracking down the symptoms.

Inside of the knee: Pain on the inside, or medial aspect, of the knee is commonly caused by medial meniscus tears, medial collateral ligament injuries, and arthritis of the joint.

For cycling medial knee problems it could be:

Medial (inner side)

Reasons
- medial collateral ligament pes anserenus

Causes
- cleat position too wide - foot held externally rotated (toes point out)
- excessive knee frontal plane motion
- too little pedal float

Possible solutions
- narrow foot position by moving cleat towards the outside of the foot (thus your foot moves nearer the bottom bracket)
- orthotic or wedge to correct foot alignment
- pedal float should be 6 - 8 degrees


I LOVE SELF DIAGNOSING MYSELF.

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