cycling and arthritis in base joint of thumb

Karen H

New Member

Joined : Nov 2013

Posts : 1

Posted 11/22/2013 12:26 AM (GMT 0)

Hi everyone,

Do you have any advice as to what is the best way to grip the handlebars of a bike if you have arthritis in the joint at the base of your thumb? I have a mountain bike with flat handlebars, and had a nasty accident three weeks ago because I was not gripping the handlebar as tightly with my right hand as I was with my left hand (because it made my right thumb hurt to grip the handbar tightly). I love to cycle, but before I get on the bike again, I want to know how I can cycle more safely and grip the handlebar better with my right hand without making my thumb joint with the arthritis so sore.

Thankyou very much for your thoughts.

Kind regards,

Karen

jujub

Elite Member

Joined : Mar 2003

Posts : 10424

Posted 11/22/2013 1:46 AM (GMT 0)

Ow! I'm not a cyclist, but I know there are a lot of days when it's hard for me to use my hands to work out - holding weights, etc. is painful.

I'm assuming you already have padded gloves; is it possible there are padded handgrips available?

kyle50

New Member

Joined : Dec 2013

Posts : 3

Posted 12/9/2013 3:52 AM (GMT 0)

There is a really good cold compression wrap from King Brand that would wrap around your thumb to prevent and get rid of swelling. I have ganglions in my wrists which it works amazing for. They wouldn't protect you from injury while you bike but they take swelling and pain down fast afterwards. Hope this helps!

Tamika

New Member

Joined : Dec 2013

Posts : 1

Posted 12/19/2013 8:43 AM (GMT 0)

Hi Karen

I'm a keen mountain biker and just getting to that age where I'm developing the pain at base of thumb. I've used 'Ergon' grips for about 4 years. Bought them at an mtb race. They distribute the load across the outside of the palm and reduce pressure on the inside of thumb - well they do for me. Everyone is different so don't know if this would be an option for you. There may be other brands with similar designs as well. Just do some Googling on Ergon.
Good luck and happy cycling!

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