Asymmetries and pelvic instability
One of the major advantages of using the retul system for analysis is that we can accurately see what happens through the pedal stroke and measure left and right sides accurately and quickly. The pre-bike assessment that is performed before anything else is statically and functionally based. This means that we will observe and measure joint range and muscle length in isolation as well as functional closed chain movements.
Asymmetries or weaknesses will often manifest themselves whilst riding that will often fit with any particular signs and symptoms or be highlighted as an area of concern with regard to power transfer through the pedal stroke.
Proximal i.e. functional hip and pelvis stability is a key component of efficiency, comfort and power. Distal control i.e. what happens at the foot and pedal end of the kinetic chain is often blamed for alignment through the pedal stroke but is only one component of stability and control. Maintaining the foot in a good neutral position is key. Often 'off the shelf' insoles provide good enough support to align the foot in the shoe unless there are significant biomechanical issues identified- every runner does not have expensive orthotics prescribed so why would a cyclist? This should be combined with suitable cleat alignment. Cleat wedges are only used to correct a leg length discrepancy or for those 5% with extreme overly pronated feet that hit the rear chain stays! The theory that cleat wedges correct a varus forefoot is flawed - a cleat wedge under a solid soled cycle shoe will supinate the fore and rear foot i.e. tip it outwards. A cycle shoe forefoot does not move independantly of the rear foot- after all the whole theory behind using a solid sole for power transfer is that it has no give.
Conversely accurate assessment of what is happening at the proximal end of the kinetic chain is key. Weakness here will lead to poor mechanics, tightness in ITB's and the individual is missing out on an important power producer at the top of the pedal stroke. Unfortunately, no amount of cleat wedges are going to strengthen these key areas or off load ITB's. It is like chasing a symptom rather than a cause. Also the riders preferred default movement pattern will often exacerbate this problem or for example overload the lumbar spine when under load or after a long race, climb etc. This is often caused by over dominant quads and paraspinal muscles and may need consistent work on abdominal and glut stability and activation to correct.
At Velomotion, the fit process will help to identify and correct these issues. Separate sessions are available to assess and identify stability and prescribe suitable exercise programmes. please email john@velomotion.co.uk or phone 01908686860
Comments
Post has no comments.