Ouch! I've got saddle sores - Part 2

If you're reading this, you're likely uncomfortable and unsure how to get back on the bike quickly because you've got saddle sores. Here are our best tips for managing your way out of this painful situation.

Training Volume

If you have already developed some sores, reduce your training volume on the bike, or cut it out altogether until symptoms disappear. The latter isn’t usually necessary, but in severe cases it is better to stop and allow yourself to get better than persist in pain, making things even worse. We all know this isn't an easy ask for those A-types among us but the reality is a few days off verses the potential for surgical intervention is an easy choice!

Hygiene

Clean and dry is your mantra here. Don't use fragranced soaps, body wash etc on the affected area. Regular showering and thorough drying cannot be understated in its ability to help you recover quickly. Also some people find loose fitting garments without tight underwear gives the area a chance to breathe - possibly easier when you are at home but worth considering.

Creams and Ointments

There are many creams on the market, but the popular ones are paw paw cream, nappy rash cream and Sudocrem (with zinc oxide). They are readily available at most supermarkets and if they are good enough to put on a baby's delicate skin then they are good enough for us! These thin creams can help treat saddle sores overnight if you apply them directly onto the infected area.

If it is really angry, treat it like a local skin infection or a spot, with gentle antibiotic or antiseptic cream. Ice can also be useful to help ease any swelling. It’s not the most pleasant feeling to lie around with ice on your saddle sore, and you have to be careful to put the ice in a sock or a tea towel or something–you’ll do serious damage if you put it directly on the spot–but it really does help.

Call the Doctor!

And if the sore turns from a small trouble spot to a point of pure torture, seek professional help and perhaps a prescription local or oral antibiotic. At worst, some athletes have ended up with surgical intervention so act early and responsibly to avoid a prolonged recovery and time off the bike.