The most common bicycling injuries of the arms involve compression of the nerves passing through the wrist. The ulnar nerve supplies sensation, or feeling, to the ring and pinky fingers and its compression is commonly called cyclist's palsy. The median nerve supplies sensation to the palm and parts of the thumb, index and middle fingers and its compression is called carpal tunnel syndrome. These nerves each pass through tight tunnels with very little extra space around the nerve. Repetitive compression causes contusion, or bruising of the nerve and swelling of the surrounding tissue.
Symptoms start while riding and often improve within several hours after completion of the ride.
Factors that increase the likelihood of overuse injuries include riding on rough terrain, long rides, and incorrect hand position. Treatment is directed at modifying these factors. Relaxing your wrists and frequently changing hand positions to avoid pressure on the heel of the hands may relieve symptoms. If necessary, resting the wrist in a splint when not riding can also improve symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may be helpful but the primary treatment is changing the habits that create the problem.