Fuoriclasse Racing sponsor Discover Chiropractic of Soho recently hosted a small workshop aimed at determining what practical role chiropractic care could play in improving cycling performance and efficiency.
Professional bike fitters perform a valuable service in improving cyclists comfort and efficiency but they are able only to change the relative position of the saddle, pedals and handlebars and cannot easily compensate for physical imbalances and asymmetry. The bicycle is designed to be symmetrical and it does not adapt itself to an imbalanced rider.
To facilitate the study two local racers kindly agreed to act as guinea pigs. Dr. Beth Forgosh of Discover Chiropractic performed a preliminary physical assessment and David Taylor assessed their cycling form via a few basic measurements and observations.
Initial Observations – Typical in everyday life but a hindrance on the bike
Dr. Forgosh commented that both subjects exhibited skeletal alignment issues that are commonly found in the general population but when the subjects climbed onto their bikes it was evident how some of these minor issues were compromising their cycling efficiency. Both subjects displayed irregular tracking of the knees and irregular movement in the hips. Apparent asymmetry in leg length was observed through measurement of the knee angle at the point of maximum extension.
Basic adjustments make a big difference
Following the initial evaluation Dr. Forgosh made a series of adjustments on each of the subjects working on each for around 15 minutes. The cyclists then re-mounted their bikes for re-assessment.
In both cases the apparent asymmetry in leg length that existed pre-adjustment was not evident afterwards. Both subjects also displayed better pedaling mechanics evidenced by more consistent knee tracking and looked and felt more comfortable on their bikes.
Will the adjustments hold?
Dr. Forgosh said that “The subjects will likely revert to their previous state as the body adjusts but through a series of treatments in the short term and with a program of monthly / bi-monthly maintenance the improvements could be made permanent.”
The amount of follow up treatment required usually depends on the severity of the condition and the length of time that it has gone untreated. One of the subjects has continued to receive treatment from Dr. Forgosh and six weeks after the initial session was observed to have excellent form and balance on the bike.
An unanticipated benefit
A remarkable and unexpected benefit occurred for one of the subjects treated. The person had suffered from an atypical asthmatic condition for 2 ½ years and hard efforts on the bike triggered severe breathing restrictions. Visits to several specialists had failed to resolve the problem but immediately after the adjustment the subject reported that her ability to breathe deeply improved by about 50%. A few days later on a training ride the subject saw heart rate numbers and experienced a level of performance that had been absent since the onset of her breathing problems. Six weeks later at the time of writing she appears to have found full resolution to her condition. Dr. Forgosh hypothesized that the subject was possibly holding nerve tension that was preventing the normal function of her vocal chords and when released it enabled the body to correct the issue.
Conclusions
The correction of common structural imbalances can deliver a biomechanical advantage for cyclists. The care of the human frame is essential for the purpose of optimizing physical potential. Competitive cyclists spend thousands of dollars on coaching, carbon components, nutrition and massage but often neglect this vital component.
Chiropractic is a powerful method of revitalizing the body. Dr. Forgosh has a unique set of skills within the chiropractic model to produce impressive results.
Now What?
Dr. Forgosh is offering a 50% discount on an initial visit and physical evaluation through January 2011 when you mention this article.
For an appointment contact:
Discover Chiropractic (212) 598 5995
