Tri-County Orthopedics Addresses Common Mountain Biking Injuries, Prevention
The local specialists at Tri-County Orthopedics say that while mountain biking is full of health benefits, they are seeing many riders come in with injuries. Serving as the region’s most preferred, recognized and awarded orthopedic practice, Tri-County Orthopedics provides specialized care for athletic injuries. To help mountain bikers get the most out of every ride, the practice’s doctors are providing some guidelines to stay safe and avoid injury. Patients seeking highly specialized care for mountain biking injuries are encouraged to call 973-538-2334 to schedule an appointment at one of the practice’s offices: in Cedar Knolls at The Advanced Medical Center at 197 Ridgedale Ave., Suite 300; in Jefferson at 757 Route 15 S. in Lake Hopatcong; in Bedminster at 1590 Route 206 N; and in Bridgewater at 465 Union Ave., Suite C.
The doctors at Tri-County Orthopedics serve as the exclusive regional doctors for Mountain Biking Doctors, a national authoritative resource on mountain biking injury prevention and treatment from specialty-trained orthopedic and sports medicine doctors. The mountain biking injury experts at Tri-County Orthopedics stress the importance of wearing a quality helmet for every ride. Additionally, mountain bikers should follow these guidelines as they hit the trail:
- 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 good to see a healthy passion like mountain biking thriving in our community, and as sports medicine specialists, we are committed to addressing and preventing the injuries that can happen," said Dr. Stephen Hunt, fellowship-trained and board-certified sports medicine surgeon. "Our team at Tri-County Orthopedics is here to provide comprehensive care to mountain bikers of all levels so they can stay on the trails they love."
To learn more about mountain biking injuries, injury prevention and when to seek treatment, please visit www.mountainbikingdoctors.com/region/cedar-knolls or call Tri-County Orthopedics at 973-538-2334.