Cyclists palsy

What is Cyclists' Palsy (Handlebar Palsy)? Cyclists' Palsy is a nerve injury at the wrist to the ulnar nerve that can occur in cyclists, both road and mountain biking. At the wrist on the little finger side, the ulnar nerve travels through a tunnel called Guyon's Canal.

1. How long does cyclist palsy last?
2. Is cyclist palsy permanent?
3. How do you treat handlebar palsy?
4. Can cycling cause carpal tunnel syndrome?

How long does cyclist palsy last?

The condition is temporary but symptoms can last for up to eight weeks if the compression of the nerve is sustained over long periods or days without rest. What then becomes necessary is modification to bike handling, bike fit, or accessory support.

Is cyclist palsy permanent?

This condition is called “Cyclist's Palsy” or “Handlebar Palsy”. While many cyclists simply try to “shake it off”, if left untreated the ulnar nerve entrapment can cause atrophy of the hand muscles, as well as permanent paralysis of the hand muscles affected by the ulnar nerve.

How do you treat handlebar palsy?

Handlebar Palsy (Ulnar Neuropathy)

Compression of this nerve can cause numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers and/or hand weakness. Nonsurgical treatment such as rest, stretching exercises, and anti-inflammatory medications generally resolves this condition.

Can cycling cause carpal tunnel syndrome?

Caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist, carpal tunnel syndrome is characterised by numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers or weakness in the hand. A common cause in cyclists is excessive pressure when riding on the bar tops or with flat bars.