The aim of this master's thesis was to review the literature on back pain among cyclists and to evaluate the effectiveness of different training programmes for prevention and treatment of said physical affliction. Back pain is a common problem among cyclists, particularly in the lumbar and cervical vertebrae, due to the specific posture required in cycling, which involves prolonged trunk flexion and neck hyperextension. The investigated studies focussed on the impact of cycling technique and bike ergonomics on the occurrence of this pain and on the effects of training measures on pain relief.
It was found that chronic lower back pain often results from poor motor control, leading to increased spinal flexion and reduced stabilisation of the musculoskeletal system. The cervical spine, on the other hand, is prone to being overloaded by prolonged hyperextension, which can lead to muscle spasms and other issues. Research has shown that the adjustment of cycling equipment, especially the handlebar and seat, is crucial in reducing the risk of these problems.
The studied training programmes included exercises for spinal stabilisation, muscle strengthening, and improving body posture while cycling. These programmes have been shown beneficial in reducing back pain; however, it is important to note that there is a lack of research that would systematically examine the effect of exercise programmes on the prevention of overuse injuries. Most studies are limited to individual cases or small samples, which limits the generalisability of findings.
Based on the literature review, guidelines have been developed that can help cyclists and coaches to develop effective exercise programmes. Adapting training to the individual needs and characteristics of each cyclist, as well as with proper bike adjustment, can significantly contribute towards reducing the risk of chronic back pain and improve overall cycling performance and comfort. These guidelines offer practical solutions that can improve cyclists’ quality of life and reduce the risk of overuse injuries.
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