If you're a frequent cyclist, you will likely end up with a saddle sore at some point.Cyclists use the phrase "saddle sore" to refer to different things, but usually, the term refers to a small, tender spot in an area where the chamois of your cycling shorts contacts your body.When you're riding, saddle sores can look like a pebble in your shorts.Most saddle sores can be healed at home in a few days.If the spot becomes infectious or you can't seem to get rid of them, you only need to see a doctor.
Step 1: There is a raised pink or red spot in the saddle area.
There are saddle sores that look like hair.The spot is usually small in relation to how it feels.If you have multiple saddle sores in the same area, they may have the appearance of a rash.
Step 2: To reduce swelling, apply ice.
When you first get a saddle sore, it might be swollen.An ice pack can numb the area so it won't be as painful.The ice pack should be wrapped in a soft towel or washcloth to prevent it from touching your skin.Do not leave the ice pack on for more than 20 minutes at a time.During the first 24 to 48 hours after you get the saddle sore, you can do this as often as every two hours.
Step 3: Take a break from cycling.
Depending on the location of your saddle sore, riding might be torturous.It won't help your saddle heal fast.If you can't afford to take a day or two off, at least ride a different bike for a few days.It will change the pressure points so you don't rub against the saddle sore.
Step 4: It's a good idea to keep your area clean.
You can take a shower anytime after you've worked up a sweat.A quick rinse might be all you need.Don't forget to dry yourself thoroughly, especially the area around your saddle sore.To avoid irritation to your skin, use a mild soap or shower gel.
Step 5: The saddle sore can be cured with an over-the-counter cream.
If you have a saddle sore, you should use an over-the-counter gel with 10% benzoyl peroxide.Before you take the medication, make sure your skin is dry and clean.Before you put clothing on over the spot, give the gel a minute or two to dry.You may want to apply the gel again if you wash the area.
Step 6: To let your skin breathe, wear lightweight clothing.
The enemy of a saddle sore is friction.To make sure it heals quickly, wear light, loose-fitting clothing that won't rub against the saddle sore.If you don't feel comfortable wearing a skirt or kilt, try loose shorts or lounge pants.If you have underwear that rubs against your saddle sore, you might want to take a break for a day or two.Boxer shorts are also an option.Sleeping in the nude can help heal saddle sores because your crotch will stay dry and not rub against any clothing.
Step 7: As needed, use over-the-counter medication.
Depending on the location and severity of the saddle sores, they can range from mildly irritating to excruciatingly painful.Ibuprofen, an over-the-counter anti- inflammatory medication, can help if you have trouble going about your daily activities because of pain from a saddle sore.Don't take over-the-counter medication for more than a day or two if you follow the instructions on the bottle.You might want to see a doctor if you still feel like you need the medication after 2 or 3 days.
Step 8: Know the symptoms of a serious saddle sore.
If you have saddle sores that last for more than 2 weeks, they may need to be treated.There are some symptoms of a saddle sore that might require a visit to the doctor.
Step 9: If there is a saddle sore, you should visit your general doctor.
If you break the skin of a saddle sore, there's a chance it will become infectious.You'll need antibiotics once you get infections.Your regular doctor can tell you if you have saddle sores.It's best to see a doctor as soon as possible if you suspect an injury or an illness.
Step 10: Antibiotics can be taken as prescribed.
Your doctor will likely prescribe you antibiotics if you have saddle sores.After a day or two, your symptoms will go away.Continue to take the antibiotics you were prescribed.If you stop taking antibiotics before the full round is over, the infection will return.It might be more difficult to treat the returned infections.
Step 11: If you have recurring saddle sores, talk to a dermatologist.
If you're doing everything you can to prevent and treat saddle sores, but they keep coming back, you may have an underlying skin issue that's causing them.A dermatologist can look at your skin.They may prescribe a stronger medication to give you some relief.When you get saddle sores, keep a log of how long it takes for them to heal.The dermatologist can use the log to get to the root of the problem more quickly.
Step 12: You can find a saddle that suits your riding style.
There are saddle sores when you ride.It shouldn't cause this problem if your saddle fits right.If your riding style has changed recently, you might need to swap out your saddle.Choose a saddle that won't hurt your groin.This will protect you against saddle sore and it can also prevent male and female riders from being impotent because of the saddle pressing on the nerves in your groin.If you're a more aggressive sprint rider, you should look for a saddle that doesn't put pressure on the front.The riders who favor long rides will want more padding in the rear.The width of your saddle is also important.You can find the best width at bike shops.It can take a bit of trial and error to get it right.If you're breaking in a new saddle, start with shorter rides and gradually increase the distance to avoid saddle sores.
Step 13: You should wear cycling shorts that fit well.
If you haven't been getting saddle sores before, your favorite cycling shorts might need to be replaced.It's a good idea to look for rough seams.The least amount of chafing can be caused by a one-piece liner or a liner without a center seam.Try different brands to see which one is the most comfortable.If you find a brand you like, it's a good idea to get 2 or 3 pairs so you always have a backup.
Step 14: You should shower before and after your ride.
If your area is clean and dry, you're less likely to get saddle sores.Before you ride, you should wash your skin.A nice hot shower will wash off the sweat from your body.Immediately after you finish your ride, take a shower.Even if the ride isn't to blame, walking around in sweaty shorts is a good way to get saddle sores.
Step 15: You should wash your shorts after cycling.
When you get back from your ride, take off your bike shorts and wash them.If you stand around in your shorts after a ride, you can cause saddle sores, which can make your skin worse, and make any sores you already have worse.
Step 16: If you're prone to saddle sores, use a chamois cream.
Chamois creams have anti-bacterial ingredients that preventbacteria from penetrating your skin and causing saddle sores.These creams are usually made with soothing ingredients that calm inflammation.Talk to someone who works at your favorite bike shop if you don't know which cream is best for you.They'll probably give a recommendation.You may want to try several different creams so you can choose the best one.
Step 17: You should change your riding position on your bike frequently.
The more you move, the less pressure you're putting on your crotch.When you're riding, stand and stretch for 15 to 20 seconds.Natural acceleration points can be used to get your stretching in.When you stand, you keep the saddle from putting too much pressure on your crotch.