Point Sports Therapy Clinic
digital
INJURY DATA
HANDLEBAR PALSY
Handlebar palsy - also known as cyclist's palsy, guyon's canal syndrome, ulnar tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuritis or ulnar neuropathy, - is when the nerves inn the hand are compressed and it leads to pain, tingling and/or numbness. It is caused by excessive pressure.
Average recovery time -
4 to 12 weeks
Likelihood of reoccurrence -
Medium
Digital illustration of handlebar palsy generated by EVE.
A palsy is when a body part becomes numb and weak. Handlebar palsy is pain, numbness and weakness of the palm/hand due to compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels generally from gripping a handlebar while cycling.
When cycling the upper body is constantly working to keep control of the bike and support the rider. During long rides, rides on rough roads or rides where the cyclist leans forwards a lot the ulnar and/or median nerve in the wrist can become compressed and cause pain, numbness/ tingling and weakness in the fingers, wrists, elbows, arms and neck.
The ulnar and median nerve pass through the wrist into the hand where the pressure from the handlebar is at its most intense. The ulnar nerve passes through the guyon's canal (pinkie side of the palm) and the median nerve passes through the centre of the wrist. (Compression of the median nerve alone is also called carpal tunnel syndrome.)
If the rider already has nerve issues in their neck or elbow it can increase the risk of triggering handlebar palsy. Handlebar palsy is usually improves immediately after the pressure is removed but it can progress and get worse over time.
Signs & SYMPTOMs
Pain when moving the fingers, hand and wrist
Numbness and tingling into the affected hand and fingers - usually the outer side of the ring and pinkie finger
Weakness in the hand and wrist
Lack of coordination/ slower reactions
Clawing of the ring and pinkie finger
If you believe you have symptoms of handlebar palsy please seek guidance from a medical professional! - EVE
Additional illustrations.
Above shows an expected VAS (pain) score for this injury as calculated by EVE.
sports
This injury is commonly seen in sports such as...
- Cycling
- Triathlon
treatment & prevention
Follow these steps to treat this injury....
Extra Information
Consult a pharmacist regarding the use of anti-inflammatories.
Wear a splint or protective pad while participating in sports.
Get in touch with a sports therapist to assist with your injury rehabilitation journey - enquire about electrotherapy.
Stay tuned for our upcoming therapist database!
Reach the starting point of your recovery by purchasing the complete injury rehabilitation package at the Self-Help Shop!
Follow these steps to prevent this injury....
DOs
Ensure a gradual return to sport following an injury
Allow adequate rest between sessions
Adjust handlebar position, tire pressure and seat height - lower your seat and shift it backwards so there is less weight over your hands
Use gloves with a padding
Use a thicker foam handlebar for shock absorption
Add strength training to your workout, specifically targeting your core to stop the pressure being over hands
Use proper technique while engaging in sports - consider having someone observe you to remind you
Incorporate regular breaks in activities that put significant strain in the area
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
DON'Ts
Minimise strenuous use and repetitive movements of the affected area - take regular breaks if unavoidable
Avoid increasing your activity levels too rapidly
Limit cycling until you feel recovered
Do not take anti-inflammatories for the first 48 hours to avoid disrupting the healing process
Do not ignore your pain/symptoms! Address them promptly for a better recovery
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.