Fact Checked
Handlebar palsy is usually common with cyclists who go on long-distance treks. The ulnar nerve found in the wrist becomes compressed due to very long periods of direct pressure on the nerve caused by the weight of the upper body that rest on the handlebars.
Causes
- Due to compression of the ulnar nerve found in the wrist
- Improper positioning of the wrist on the handlebars.
- Disruption or compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow caused by trauma, spurs, arthritis and cysts.
Difficulty in performing functions of the hand such as using surgical equipment, using pen and playing musical instruments such as piano. - Repetitive movements at the elbow or wrist
- Performing activities such as weight lifting, throwing and biking
Symptoms of handlebar palsy
- Clawing of the hand
- Difficulty in performing functions of the hand such as using surgical equipment, using pen and playing musical instruments such as piano.
- Lack of coordination or clumsiness in hand and fingers movement
- The affected fingers do not function properly.
- Pain while performing wrist activities
- Difficulty in straightening the ring and the pinky finger of the affected hand
- The outer half of the ring finger, little finger and the outer portion of the hand becomes affected.
- Numbness, weakness and tingling sensations in the palm and thumb
Treatment
- Take plenty of rest especially the affected area.
- Apply ice on the area for at least 10-15 minutes to lessen the pain and swelling for 2-4 weeks. Ice can be in the form of an ice pack, cold compress and frozen vegetables. Avoid directly applying on the skin to prevent further damage.
- Wear a wrist splint to prevent unnecessary movements, prevent further irritation on the nerve and lessen the discomfort.
- Apply heat on the area in the form of a warm compress to lessen the stiffness and spasms of the affected area.
- Take the prescribed oral and topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to lessen the inflammation.
- Take Vitamin B complex supplements for fast healing of the damaged nerve.
- Seek the help of the physical therapist for some rehabilitation exercises to improve the strength and the flexibility of the affected area.
Tips
- Wear padded gloves to prevent further irritation of the ulnar nerve.
- Change the position of the handles and the seat of the bike. If the handle bars are too low or the frame of the bike is too large, there is no need to stretch or reach for the handles and prevent extra weight and pressure on the forearms and wrist.
- Use a thick foam-type of handle bar tap to increase shock absorption. Change position of the hand frequently.
FACT CHECK
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Cyclist%27s_palsy
https://www.epainassist.com/sports-injuries/wrist-injuries/handlebar-palsy