OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports Provides Safety Guidelines for Mountain Bike Riders
The local experts at OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports say that mountain biking is full of health benefits, but riders of all skill levels are still prone to injuries. As orthopedic and sports medicine specialists, the team at OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports provides highly specialized surgical and nonsurgical care for a full range of sports injuries. To help mountain bikers stay safe and avoid injury, the practice’s doctors have provided guidelines for all riders. Patients seeking highly specialized care for mountain biking injuries are encouraged to call 205-228-7600 to schedule an appointment at one of the practice’s offices, located at 1801 Gadsden Highway in Birmingham or 118 Mars Hill Road in Hoover.
As the exclusive regional doctors for Mountain Biking Doctors, OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports are mountain biking injury experts for the region. Mountain Biking Doctors is a national authoritative resource on mountain biking injury prevention and treatment from specialty-trained orthopedic and sports medicine doctors. Alongside the importance of always wearing a quality, well-fitted helmet, the team of experts also stresses the following guidelines:
Plan ahead: Without knowing the path, it can be nearly impossible to make the right choices quickly enough. Also consider the time it takes to get to the end of the trail, and add some time on your way back since you will likely be tired.
Supplemental exercise and stretching: Warm up for 10 minutes and do full-body stretches beforehand. Stay fit by implementing exercises to build your musculoskeletal strength and resilience.
Hydrate and energize: Dehydration and fatigue slow your reaction time. Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after your ride. For energy, eat a large meal two to three hours before longer rides and a small meal one to three hours before a shorter ride.
Balance: Getting out of your seat and putting the weight on your pedals helps stabilize your center of gravity. This reduces the risk of crashes, especially in rougher terrain where the path can be unpredictable.
“It is incredible to see the passion of mountain biking grow in our community," said Dr. Mary Gilmer, fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialist and board-certified orthopedic surgeon. "As orthopedic specialists, our team at OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports is dedicated to addressing and preventing mountain biking injuries, ensuring comprehensive care at every level to keep riders on their favorite trails."
To learn more about preventing mountain biking injuries and when to seek treatment, please visit www.mountainbikingdoctors.com/region/birmingham or call OrthoAlabama Spine & Sports at 205-228-7600.