TOUR You say that cycling is ideal after a knee injury. Why is that?
WHITE It is definitely the best therapy for rebuilding the muscles! Mainly because of the guided movement in a mechanically closed system, the low joint load and very good metabolic activation. The joint is mobilised as a whole and swelling is reduced more quickly by the circular movement.
TOUR When can you cycle again after injuries or operations?
WHITE In principle, rehabilitation training can begin as soon as the knee is fully mobile again and free of irritation and pain. If the pain and mobility do not even allow a low level of weight-bearing, the patient must wait.
TOUR What do I have to consider as a patient?
WHITE It is very important to adjust your riding position, crank length and foot position on the pedals precisely. At the beginning, you may need to sit significantly higher than usual. And the forces acting on the knee must be monitored - a damaged knee cannot yet withstand every torque, so you have to be very careful. The best way to precisely monitor and regulate your pedalling force and cadence is to use a watt display on an ergometer throughout your rehabilitation training - ideally under the supervision of a specialist. Simply
on the bike and start cycling as usual is not advisable.
TOUR What does the training look like?
WHITE This depends on the type and severity of the injury. It depends on the healing process, the pain and the swelling. It also plays a role whether you have had surgery or conservative treatment. In general, however, I am in favour of getting back on the bike as quickly as possible. Many people start by coasting for a while. After a certain point, you then have to ramp up the power again, adapted to the healing progress. The cadence should not be too high, even in easy gears. Accompanying physiotherapy is also required to stabilise and coordinate the knee and surrounding structures.
TOUR When can you put full weight on the knee again?
WHITE This cannot be said in general terms - you can often expect to be fit for competition again after six to nine months. With good care and successful reconstruction, the system is often even more stable than before.
