Travelling in a motorcycle can be fun. Imagine the sheer exhilaration you get from the wind blowing in your face, with nothing but a powerful engine and two wheels. The postures you assume behind the handlebars, however, tend to cause problems for your back that must be treated over time, as noted by a writer on the motorcycle lifestyle blog Ridin’ Out.
New Jerseyans, including residents of Bergen County, may relate to issues of rider health and how poor welfare will affect them on the road. The county is already home to a popular Harley-Davidson dealership, and hosts the annual Andiamo Benefit Motorcycle Run, with dozens of riders bringing out their vaunted steeds for a good cause. If you’ve been feeling the strain from long periods of riding your motorbike, seek treatment for back pain at a practice such as the MedWell Spine, OsteoArthritis & Neuropathy Center.
The Steed is the Problem?
There are times when your choice of motorbike may result in some warning signs of back pain that you cannot ignore. Issues with body, feet, and hand positioning are a factor in the operation.
Standard bikes like tourers or dual-sport units require your back to be straight up, your feet aligned with it and your hands relatively forward and straight. Riding in a cruiser is relatively the same except that the feet and legs will be forward. Both classes are safe for longer-distance riding, but it’s the sport motorbikes that tend to raise havoc: the emphasis on speed forces you to lean your body forward, thus flexing the spine further.
You may also want to be more careful with changing your parts. In a post for Coccyx.org, a veteran biker recalled replacing his bagger’s OEM seat with an aftermarket unit because of numbing legs. The problem was: the other seat was not that ergonomic and it led to more pressure on his tailbone.
Stretching Legs
A treatment program for back pain can involve various exercise routines when you’re not on the bike. In some cases, stretching the back can be done with an exercise ball. You can also raise your arms and legs to gradually reinforce the lower back. If there are cases when your arm position tends to affect the back, you may need to adjust your handlebars.
While riding a motorcycle or even a regular bicycle has its own benefits when it comes to mobility and speed, being in top condition when you’re in the saddle should never be taken for granted. Undergoing treatment through a Ridgewood, NJ back pain relief practitioner such as one at MedWell can make a difference in your riding habits. Why not schedule an appointment today?
Sources:
Lower Back Pain From Your Motorcycle, Ridin’ Out
Why Sitting Up Straight May Get You A Better Ride, Too, Cruiser.com
Motorcycle tailbone experience, Coccyx.org
