Female cyclists' experiences of saddle sores and their effect on cycling.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The aims of this study are to: (1) understand the type, severity, and experiences of saddle sores in female cyclists, (2) explore the impact on enjoyment, training, and performance, and (3) what prevention or treatment methods female cyclists use, including discussing these issues with their coach, bike fitters, and medical staff.

Methods

20 competitive female cyclists (age 35.1 ± 7.7 years, cycling for 11.9 ± 7.4 years, three elite, seven subelite, and 10 club cyclists) were interviewed using an open-ended, semistructured approach. A thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

Saddle sores were highly prevalent in female cyclists and most occurred in the vulva region. The saddle sores were suggested to be attributed to pressure, friction at saddle contact poi

SUBMITTER: Burnie L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12908944 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature