What's hurting?
1. carpal tunnel syndrome: a nerve entrapment in the hand that initially hurts and later leads to numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers. It is caused by the bent position of the wrist. Nerves in the carpal tunnel can also react painfully to high pressure.
2. compression of the ulnar nerve: Permanent pressure reduces the blood flow to the outer edge of the hand - the nerve is pinched off and undersupplied. This leads to tingling and numbness in the little finger and ring finger.
What to do on the body?
If you have pain or numbness, you should first refrain from pressure loads that have a very localised effect - strength training with a barbell or kettlebell. On the bike, special gloves can reduce the pressure. Many manufacturers have suitable products in their range.
What to do on the bike?
The saddle should be level with the ground so that the tip of the saddle and the end are at the same height (except for stepped saddles). A saddle with the nose pointing downwards increases the pressure on your hands. Check the length of the top tube and stem of your bike: are you sitting too long? The brake levers should be positioned so that your hand is in a neutral position when gripping the levers. If your hands bend downwards, the grips are turned too far upwards.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 1/2018 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
