Like Riding A Bicycle, Safety Is Easy To Remember - Orthopaedic Surgeons Advise Cyclists On Avoiding Injury

Main Category: Sports Medicine / Fitness
Also Included In: Bones / Orthopaedics
Article Date: 14 Aug 2007 - 2:00 PDT

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Remember what it felt like to ride a bicycle without training wheels? First came the wobbling of the tires and the frantic pedaling, and then the carefree feeling as you sped forward without an adult's guiding hand for balance. But accidents - especially falls - can mar the thrill of cycling. That's why, whether you choose to eighteen-speed, tricycle or tandem your way down the road during these end of summer days, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) warns bicyclists of all ages to follow some important safety precautions.

According to statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2005:

-- More than 1.2 million people were treated in hospitals, doctor's offices and clinics for bicycle-related injuries.

-- These injuries cost more than $35 billion in lost wages, pain and suffering, medical costs and other expenses.

-- Common accidents involved

- Colliding with a car or another bicycle
- Losing control
- Entangling hands, feet or clothing in the bicycle
- Feet slipping off the pedals

"Bike riding is fun and a great aerobic activity, but only if riders know how to ride safely," explained John T. Gill, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and chair-elect, AAOS Board of Councilors. "Unfortunately, many people don't take the precautions they need to, which leads to an extraordinary number of injuries each year."

Since orthopaedic surgeons treat so many bicycle-related injuries, the AAOS offers this list of safety tips to help bikers prevent injuries:

-- Always wear a helmet approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Make sure it fits snugly but comfortably and does not obstruct vision. It should have a chin strap and buckles that stay securely fastened. Studies have shown that wearing a bicycle helmet can reduce head injuries by up to 95 percent.

-- Make certain the bicycle is the proper size for the rider. Appropriately sized frames, handlebar and seat heights, as well as understanding of gear systems, help reduce injuries.

-- Consider using training wheels for young and first-time riders.

-- Proper supervision of younger riders is a prerequisite. In fact, it is recommended that younger children ride only in enclosed areas.

-- Ensure the bicycle is properly adjusted and maintained. Replace broken or missing parts.

-- Avoid plastic pedals, which can be slippery when wet.

-- Wear bright fluorescent colors and avoid biking at night. If biking at night, make sure to have rear reflectors and a working headlight visible from 500 feet away.

-- Stay alert and watch for obstacles.

-- Less experienced bicyclists should be educated about the rules of the road.

-- Ride in the direction of traffic and be aware of surrounding traffic. Obey all rules of the road; bicycles are vehicles, too.

-- Don't ride double, attempt stunts or go too fast.

-- Avoid loose clothing and wear appropriate footwear. Use pant leg clips to keep clothing grease-free and out of the bicycle chain.

-- Consider wearing knee, wrist and elbow pads to protect bones and joints when falling.

-- Avoid riding on uneven or slippery surfaces. All types of brakes may not work as well when wheels are wet and require more distance to stop.

-- Drinking enough fluids, stretching and scheduling routine activity can help avoid injuries related to overuse.

More safety tips and injury prevention information:

http://www.orthoinfo.org

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons