Health Stuff

[KDWeb]

Does anyone know of any good health related sites out on the web that are “bike-centric” where I might get some better background on various remedies for the common ailments that occur to some of us less then genetic perfection gifted types? I am talking about nagging knee or back problems that are not related to seat height or other “adjustment related” maladies.

[Shkenblke]

For knee problems you can try glucosamine condroitin. I have had 3 knee ops and possibly a fourth cause of wrestling. My mom keeps trying to get me to take it, but as a man of science I have looked into it and there is no real evidence that it works, but at the same time, there isn't anything that disproves it. Some people swear by it and truly think that it really has helped to regenerate their cartilage. Give it a try or at least look into it. Some orthopaedists recommend it for people. Also for backs they make these great patches (forget what brand, possibly icyhot though) that will fit a very large area and will literally stay warm/hot for 8 hours. Really good to help with stiffness and would probably hold up for most of a ride too.

[stump ss]

look up (Google, etc .) Andy Pruitt's medical guide for cyclists. can buy via Amazon or e-book e-tailers. Pretty good for recovery, positioning, knee/back problems, overuse injury...

[Ripp]

Look into a Neuro-Muscular massage therapist in your area, if your open to such mumbo-jumbo.
This procedure has helped me with long term but fairly minor low back issues first, and then after I got into cycling big time with a left quad issue that would sometimes cause muscle spasms. I'm not talking a twitching muscle here but a full blown spasm that is without a doubt the most painfull thing I've experienced as an adult. But I digress.

NMM focuses on how the fact that some muscles in the body (usually the little conector type) do not properly relax after body trauma (like stacking your bike) or strenous exertion. They will discuss your symptoms and any possible triggers then look for possible causes with trial and error.

Its not brain surgery, but it doesn't cost as much either. I've had good results myself. Much more lasting than anything a chiropractor ever did for me! It's not always pleasant though!

A good practitioner will tell you upfront if they think they could help you with your particular issue.

[Professor Pedal]

there is no real evidence that it works, but at the same time, there isn't anything that disproves it. Some people swear by it and truly think that it really has helped to regenerate their cartilage.

I've had 3 scopes too (2 left, 1 right). Have been taking G/C for years. It doesn't work miracles, but probably helps some. The last 2 orthopods I have seen both recommended to keep taking it.