Do pro cyclists get saddle sores?

Not all cyclists experience saddle sores. For those who do, taking a day or two off the bike to deal with the bacteria-filled pore is usually enough to heal the wound. This less-talked-about (and kind of gross) aspect of cycling is a reality for many cyclists and no one solution fits all.

Why do I keep getting saddle sores?

They occur as a result of moisture, pressure and friction where athletes sit on the bike seat (saddle). Saddle sores are thought to develop over time, starting with simple chafing of the skin over the buttocks, genital region and inner thigh.

How do you drain saddle sores?

These boils form around the base of a hair follicle, are filled with pus, and often feel firm and painful. While some cyclists have found relief in popping theirs (never to be attempted if there’s no discernible ‘head’), doctors advise against this. Instead you can use a hot compress to help it drain on its own.

Is sudocrem good for saddle sores?

Sudocrem is a fairly inexpensive antiseptic healing cream. It’s traditionally used to help clear up nappy rash, eczema, acne and other skin conditions. It can also be used on saddle sores.

Is a saddle sore a boil?

Most medical experts say that saddle sores are actually boils caused by skin bacteria that invade surface abrasions. Remedies have come a long way from the era when riders would put slabs of raw steak in their shorts to cushion the abraded area.

Are saddle sores common?

When it comes to riding your bike though, you have to take the good with the bad, sores, warts and all… Saddle sores are more common than you may think, and why is this? Because not all cyclists will talk about them.

How do you heal saddle sores fast?

Skin can heal quickly if it’s not continually being irritated. Keep the affected parts of your skin clean and dry to avoid infection or further irritation. Try topical ointments, such as diaper-rash cream, antibiotic cream, and hemorrhoid cream (Preparation H), which can help sooth irritated and inflamed skin.

Can you drain a saddle sore?

Can you use Vaseline instead of chamois cream?

A lot of riders swear by petroleum jelly (or diaper rash ointments containing it) as cheaper versions of chamois cream, but that can actually be a costly mistake. The petroleum jelly won’t wash out of your chamois properly, can trap bacteria in there, and can wreck the antimicrobial treatment, explains Mathews.

Are there any female cyclists that have saddle sores?

It’s not your quads that are screaming, or a dehydration headache, its a painful little sore on your bum. Saddle sores (and other issues “down there”) are common among female cyclists and yet are seldom talked about.

How to get rid of saddle sores on bike?

Take a day or two off the bike. If you’re struggling to get rid of a saddle sore, constantly re-exposing the area to the stimulus won’t help. Take a little time off the bike, and wear loose, breathable clothing for the best chance of a quick recovery.

Do you need chamois cream for saddle sores?

Chamois cream is not an essential item for all cyclists. Some riders find that with a good pair of short and the right saddle, they can completely forgo the messy stuff. However, if you’re prone to saddle sores, it’s a really good idea to utilise this helpful aid.

What causes a sore on the side of the saddle?

Saddle sores vary between individuals. However, a general description would be a sore, often raised area of skin in the region that makes regular contact with the saddle. Some saddle sores look a lot like spots and these are often caused by an infected hair follicle.