Franklin Lakes, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/06/2019 -- With North Jersey's glorious spring weather in full swing, bicycle enthusiasts are beginning to hit the streets and trails in droves. And who can blame them? Cycling is a great way to improve health and fitness.

The benefits of cycling include: increased cardiovascular fitness, greater muscle strength and flexibility, better joint mobility, lower stress levels, improved posture and coordination, stronger bones, reduced body fat levels and greater prevention (or management) of pain and chronic conditions. Kayal Orthopaedic Center's top sports medicine specialists and best orthopaedic surgeons in Bergen County, NJ, encourage cyclists to know their limits to maximize benefits and prevent injuries.

Here are some common cycling injuries and how to avoid them:

1. Knee pain: Overuse injuries include patellofemoral syndrome (cyclist's knee), patella tendinitis, quadriceps tendinitis and medial plica syndrome. The first three injuries cause kneecap pain and the fourth causes outer knee pain. Shoe implants, shoe wedges and proper pedaling position can help prevent these injuries.

2. Head injuries: A cyclist's head can be seriously injured during a fall or accident. Wearing a helmet can cut the risk of injury by as much as 85 percent. In New Jersey, cyclists under 17 must wear helmets. However, the specialists at Kayal Orthopaedic Center urge all cyclists to wear helmets and other protective gear.

3. Back/neck pain: Riding in the same position for a long period of time can cause neck pain. Handlebars that are too low also can cause neck and back strain. Stretching and shoulder shrugs can help. Cyclists should also try changing the grip on the handlebars to reduce muscle stress and redistribute pressure on the nerves.

4. Wrist/forearm pain or numbness: Cyclist's palsy and carpal tunnel syndrome are two common wrist overuse injuries. Try alternating pressure from the inside to the outside of the palms and keeping the wrists above the handlebars. Wearing padded gloves and stretching the hands and wrists before a ride can help, too. Locked or straight elbows can cause injuries when cyclists hit bumps. Ride with the elbows slightly bent.

5. Foot pain: Pedaling when the seat is not properly adjusted can cause Achilles tendonitis, irritation and inflammation in the back of the heel. Another foot injury is plantar fasciitis, which causes pain on the bottom of the foot. Properly fitted shoes can help.

Although most cycling overuse injuries will heal with rest and pain medication, cyclists should seek medical attention when pain is severe, prolonged or accompanied by bleeding, loss of sensation or increased weakness. Trust Kayal Orthopaedic Center's elite sports medicine experts for outstanding care, including medical second opinions. Schedule an appointment today by calling 844.281.1783 or filling out this form.

About Kayal Orthopaedic Center
Kayal Orthopaedic Center offers the full spectrum of orthopaedic care. Headquartered in Bergen County, NJ, the practice specializes in minimally invasive surgery, injury prevention, innovative therapies and pain management. It has five convenient offices in New Jersey: Glen Rock, Franklin Lakes, Westwood, Paramus (coming soon) and Montvale (coming soon); and one location in Stony Point, NY.