If, for example, an experienced cyclist's knees hurt after a 30-mile ride, the problem may be a biomechanical imbalance. A podiatric physician can alleviate the pain by correcting that imbalance through prescription orthotic shoe inserts. Training and conditioning methods should also be evaluated. Riders should start slowly and work up to normal cadence, or rate of pedaling. The seat is at the proper height when knees are slightly flexed and hips are over the knees.
Podiatrists recommend the use of a pulse monitor for a cycling-based training regimen.
Some models strap around the chest, while smaller units wrap around the wrist or the thumb and display the pulse rate as you ride. Ask your podiatrist about an appropriate pulse rate while you ride. Every day, podiatrists treat cyclists who have sustained overuse injuries by pushing themselves beyond their limitations. Here are some of the most common cycling injuries and their causes. As with all athletic injuries, pain that is persistent indicates a need to seek treatment from a sports medicine specialist familiar with cycling injuries.