Cyclist’s Palsy or Handlebar Syndrome

Cyclist’s Palsy or Handlebar Syndrome

Many kinds of injuries can be developed by cycling. This is a sport that requires holding a curved position for certain periods while applying pressure to the joints. In the case of cyclist’s palsy, it refers to the discomfort caused by the pressure applied especially to the wrists while practicing this sport.

This occurs by the compression of the cubital nerve which is a nerve that goes from the shoulder until the hand, ending in the ring finger and the middle finger. This nerve could be affected by preexisting conditions in the patient, however, we will focus on cycling as a direct cause.

This kind of injury is very common in cyclists and it is caused by the pressure applied to the wrist and the hand, but it can also happen by getting hit in the area or by the constant vibration while cycling which can irritate the cubital nerve.

The main symptoms of the cyclist’s palsy include a slight tingling sensation that can start in the ring and the little finger and as it intensifies it can be felt in all the hand and even in the wrist and forearm. In the same way, numbness can appear affecting the whole forearm and hand areas. In more severe cases this can progress until causing stiffness and even ending up in the loss of strength and movement. This can be measured by the patient’s ability to extend the forearm, the hand, and especially, the fingers.

Treatment and Recovery

• To heal from the cyclist’s palsy syndrome it is first necessary to take a break from practicing sports until all symptoms are gone.
• Similarly, it could be necessary to use a cast to keep the affected area immobilized.
• Anti-inflammatory physiotherapy is also greatly helpful in the healing process.
• Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine can help alleviate the discomfort while helping the affected area to recover.
• In some cases, surgery might be necessary.

How to Prevent

For all passionate or occasional cyclists it could be helpful to take into account the following recommendations to be applied while practicing this sport: 

• The height of the chair should be adjusted taking into account the positioning of the handlebars. If the seat is too low, most of the weight will be born by the hands making it more likely to end up with cyclist’s palsy. 
• The use of padded gloves or the use of a padded cover for the handlebars could help cushion a little more the pressure applied in this area. 
• Taking breaks and changing the positioning of the hands can also help avoid applying too much pressure to the hand by holding the same posture. 

It is important to always practice sports safely and in case of injury do not hesitate to consult an expert.