We've Got Cyclists' Backs!

It is fairly common for avid cyclists to complain of back pain, which affects an estimated 30 to 70 percent of cyclists. The good news is that a fix for the problem may be no more complicated than adjusting their bicycle seats. This recommendation is made on the assumption that back pain arises among cyclists when the angle formed by the spine and pelvic bone is too large. To address this potential problem, cyclists are urged to tip the front ends of their bicycle seat down by 10 to 15 degrees. Doing so may help relieve back strain. On the other hand, if back pain persists, cyclists may want to have a physical therapist evaluate their pedaling posture.