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Cycling knee problems

Cycling is often prescribed for knee rehabilitation, but cycling incorrectly can also lead to knee problems.

Three anatomical knee areas demonstrate common problems amongst cyclists:

• lateral knee pain (on the outer aspect)
• anterior knee pain (in the front)
• medial knee pain (on the inner aspect)

Lateral knee pain is frequently due to the ilio-tibial band friction syndrome, from the saddle being too high or too far back or one leg being shorter than the other. The ilio-tibial band (ITB) is a fibrous structure on the side if the leg. With repetitive strain its underlying bursa (friction sac) can become inflamed at the ITB attachment area and cause pain.

Anterior knee pain is generally patello-femoral in origin from the saddle being too low or too far forward, or the cleats being internally rotated.

Medial knee pain may follow from using high gear ratios or having externally-rotated cleats.

Careful attention needs to be paid to saddle height and position, and the angle of the cleats.