Pain in the Saddle

:confused:

I have been road riding for about 2 years now. However, on January 21st of this year I had a total hysterectomy. I have always had pain in the saddle but now it seems worse. Of course I took some time off from riding (and walking and moving!) to recuperate. I have been riding again for almost three months. I am having tremendous pain in the saddle, in the same ol' place. I can ride about 25 miles, and then I just can not stand it anymore. I am used to riding 45-50 miles with just mild pain.

I know I probably need a new seat but is there anything else I can do?


HELP:confused:


Evie

if it's just your sitbones, it is going to take time.
if it has to do with soft tissue in the front area, you might need estrogen cream.

Another thing that occurs to me is that if you haven't done a focused core strengthening program after your surgery, it's possible that your pelvis is tilting more forward than it used to, due to a weak core.

Very good point, Oakleaf. After a hysterectomy, it's likely that you have a weak core (but I don't know, maybe you're a Pilates queen!). If you do have a weak core, that could certainly contribute to soreness and pain--in the seat area as well as shoulders, arms, neck, wrists, and hands. And back.

You say you've always had saddle pain--ouch! It doesn't have to be that way!
You didn't mention if you are riding the same bike, set up the same way. Have you changed any components?

If you have not had your bike professionally fit (tweaked just for you), then I would say that would be the first step, along with serious core strengthening. You may need a different saddle, too.

I hope you get it sorted out soon. It's no fun to ride an uncomfortable bike, much less a painful one.

Juliellen

I think you ladies are correct. My core is unbelievably week post surgery. I have gained weight and am just now starting to work on core training again. I swim also but have started a core routine also.

You all made a lot of sense. Thank you.