A relatively low-impact sport when practised at low intensity, cycling/mountain biking nonetheless continuously engages the joints and muscles of the leg. This is why some riders with weakened joints may find it beneficial to wear orthoses to provide better support.
WHY USE AN ORTHOSIS FOR CYCLING/MOUNTAIN BIKING?
An orthosis is designed to assist a weakened joint or muscle segment. It takes the form of a sleeve to be pulled over the part of the body requiring relief, incorporating more or less rigid stabilising elements. The orthosis thus supports the body segment that needs it, holding it more firmly in place. It can therefore be useful during rehabilitation, to better guide the movement of an injured joint following a sprain or dislocation. More generally, it is used to support a weakened knee due to ligamentous laxity or recurrent patellar instability.
In practice, the use of an orthosis may concern a rider in rehabilitation, or an enthusiast who wishes to ride at a good intensity despite joint weakness. A knee orthosis can notably be worn by a mountain bike rider during technical sessions to limit the risk of re-injury.
While the knee is often discussed as the most heavily used joint in cycling, there are of course orthoses for all peripheral joints, such as the ankle or elbow, which can also be put under significant strain, especially in mountain biking. Some orthoses also focus on the tibial area, to relieve shin splint-type pain.
WHAT CRITERIA SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT?
Your orthosis should be chosen according to the degree of injury and therefore the level of support required.
For the knee, for example, various types of orthoses exist, from a simple sleeve that applies measured compression and light support, to the more rigid ultimate protection with a patellar opening. An intermediate solution is also available, with silicone hinges directly integrated into the fabric, which promote joint support.
Orthoses are most commonly made from a breathable material, such as perforated neoprene.
Fastening systems may vary. Some orthoses simply use elastic and adhesive bands at each end; other models may offer easily adjustable velcro straps.
Découvrez tous nos conseils & Tutoriels
