Cycling and mountain biking are not particularly strenuous sports when practised at low intensity, but they nonetheless involve continuous movement of the joints and muscles of the leg. That's why some cyclists with weak joints may find it useful to wear orthotics for better support.
WHY USE AN ORTHOSIS ON A MOUNTAIN BIKE?
The purpose of an orthosis is to support a weakened joint or muscle segment. It takes the form of a membrane to be slipped over the part of the body to be relieved, incorporating more or less rigid stabilizing elements. The orthosis thus supports the body segment in need, holding it more firmly. It can therefore be useful in the rehabilitation phase, to better support the movement of an injured joint after a sprain or dislocation. More generally, it can be used to support a weakened knee, due to ligament hyperlaxity or recurrent patellar instability.
In practice, the use of an orthosis may concern a rider undergoing rehabilitation, or an enthusiast who wants to be able to ride at a good intensity despite joint fragility. Knee braces can also be worn by mountain bikers during committed sessions, to limit the risk of recurrence of injury.
Although we often talk about the knee, because it's the joint most put to the test on a bike, there are of course orthoses for all peripheral joints, such as the ankle or elbow, which can also be put to the test, especially on a mountain bike. Some orthoses also focus on the tibial area, to relieve periostitis-type pain.
WHICH CRITERIA TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT?
Orthotics are chosen according to the degree of injury, and therefore the support required.
For the knee, for example, there are a number of different types of orthosis, ranging from a simple membrane providing measured compression and light support, to the ultimate, more rigid protection with a patellar opening. An intermediate solution is offered, with silicone articulations directly integrated into the fabric, which promote joint support.
Orthotics are usually made from a breathable material, such as perforated neoprene.
Fastening systems can vary. Some orthoses simply use elastic, adhesive bands at each end; other models may feature easily adjustable Velcro straps.
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