I am 23 years old and an ambitious racing cyclist (17,000 kilometres per year). I also do gymnastics two to three times a week and go swimming. I have been suffering from pain on the outside of my lower right leg for six months after sitting at a desk for long periods of time for two months. An examination revealed a bulging disc that was pressing on the L4 nerve root. Since then I have been undergoing physiotherapy (massage and mud packs). However, my condition is not improving. I even have pain in my lower leg when swimming. What can I do about this without having to give up cycling?
Falk Ogniewski, by e-mail
Your pain does not necessarily have to be caused by the spine, it could also come from the knee joint. The fibula has an articulated joint at the tibial plateau. If your ischiocrural muscles, in particular the knee joint flexor, are shortened, the fibula protrudes higher - this often leads to the pain described. This is mainly due to the so-called peroneal nerve, which can also lead to sensory disturbances on the outer edge of the foot. You should start by significantly reducing your cycling training, especially by not pedalling high gears. Check the position of your footplates on the pedals; even the slightest misalignment can lead to pain and inflammation of the fibula head at the base of the shin - especially with the high distances you cycle each year. You should also regularly stretch and mobilise the entire lower leg. Only resume regular training once the pain has completely subsided.
