Imaging of cycling injuries

Abstract

Worldwide, cycling accounts for the highest number of sports-related pathologies. The pathologies associated with cycling are quite varied, and the bicycles themselves and the ergonomics of the pedaling often play a role. One can distinguish between acute traumatic pathologies and lesions that appear progressively. Concerning chronic pathologies, the knee is the most frequently affected site, while for acute trauma the shoulder is most commonly affected. Tendinopathy and neuropathy are also particularly frequent in cycling. Expert knowledge of the specific clinical aspects will ensure that appropriate complementary examinations are carried out early on. This is particularly important in high-level cycling so that athletes will be able to recover quickly without sequelae. Plain radiography, ultrasound, and MRI are the most widely used techniques. In certain cases, imaging and especially ultrasound can be used to optimize the therapeutic approaches.