1
|
Saulicz M, Saulicz A, Saulicz E. Self-Assessment of Lower Urinary Tract Condition in Female Competitive Cyclists. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1163. [PMID: 38921278 PMCID: PMC11202815 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12121163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
During cycling, prolonged compression by the bicycle saddle on the anatomical structures located in the perineum area occurs. An additional factor that may have a negative impact on organs located in the pelvic area may be a prolonged sitting position resulting in increased intraabdominal pressure. This situation has the potential to adversely affect pelvic floor function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in female competitive road cyclists and cross-country cyclists. The study included 76 female competitive road cyclists and cross-country cyclists and 76 women not practising competitive sport. The Core Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Score (CLSS) questionnaire was used to assess the lower urinary tract condition. Female competitive cyclists had a statistically significantly higher LUTSs score (95% CI: 3.12-4.2 vs. 2.31-3.16; p < 0.05) compared to women not practising competitive sports. Female cyclists had a statistically significantly higher overall CLSS score (95% CI: 3.99-5.61 vs. 2.79-3.97; p < 0.05). Female cyclists had a statistically significantly higher incidence and severity of urinary frequency (p < 0.05 and p < 0.02), urge (p < 0.001 and p < 0.02) and stress incontinence (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001), and pain in the bladder (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01), while physically inactive women recorded a statistically higher incidence of slow urinary stream (p < 0.01 and p < 0.04). A statistically significant association was recorded between the years of cycling and the number of hours per week spent on training and the number of symptoms and their severity. The number of natural births experienced by women involved in competitive cycling significantly affects the severity of LUT symptoms. Compared to women not practising competitive sports, competitive female cyclists are found to have a higher prevalence of LUTSs and a greater degree of severity. LUTSs in competitive female cyclists are negatively influenced by years of competitive career and weekly number of training hours and the number of natural births experienced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariola Saulicz
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Saulicz
- School of Public Health & Social Work, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Edward Saulicz
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, 40-065 Katowice, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Stylemans D, Vandecruys M, Leunis S, Engelborghs S, Gargioli D, Monbaliu D, Cornelissen V, Van Craenenbroeck AH, De Smet S. Physical Exercise After Solid Organ Transplantation: A Cautionary Tale. Transpl Int 2024; 37:12448. [PMID: 38414660 PMCID: PMC10898592 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2024.12448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
An increasing body of randomized controlled trials suggests the safety of engaging in moderate to vigorous intensity exercise training following solid organ transplantation. Fueled by emerging sport events designed for transplant recipients and the ever-growing body of research highlighting the diverse health benefits of physical activity, transplant recipients are now increasingly participating in strenuous and occasionally competitive physical endeavors that largely surpass those evaluated in controlled research settings. This viewpoint article adopts a cautionary stance to counterbalance the prevalent one-sided optimistic perspective regarding posttransplant physical activity. While discussing methodological limitations, we explore plausible adverse impacts on the cardiovascular, immunological, and musculoskeletal systems. We also examine the physiological consequences of exercising in the heat, at high altitude, and in areas with high air pollution. Risks associated with employing performance-enhancing strategies and the conceivable psychological implications regarding physical activity as a tribute to the 'gift of life' are discussed. With a deliberate focus on the potential adverse outcomes of strenuous posttransplant physical activity, this viewpoint aims to restore a balanced dialogue on our comprehension of both beneficial and potentially detrimental outcomes of physical activity that ultimately underscores the imperative of well-informed decision-making and tailored exercise regimens in the realm of posttransplant care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Stylemans
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marieke Vandecruys
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Leunis
- Laboratory of Abdominal Transplantation, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Engelborghs
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Davide Gargioli
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diethard Monbaliu
- Laboratory of Abdominal Transplantation, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Abdominal Transplant Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Transplantoux Foundation, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Véronique Cornelissen
- Research Group for Rehabilitation in Internal Disorders, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amaryllis H. Van Craenenbroeck
- Nephrology and Renal Transplantation Research Group, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefan De Smet
- Exercise Physiology Research Group, Department of Movement Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lui H, Mmonu N, Awad MA, Namiri NK, Zheng MY, Amend GM, Eisenberg ML, Breyer BN. Association of Bicycle-Related Genital Numbness and Female Sexual Dysfunction: Results From a Large, Multinational, Cross-Sectional Study. Sex Med 2021; 9:100365. [PMID: 34049264 PMCID: PMC8240355 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cycling can lead to microtrauma due to increased perineal pressure, possibly contributing to genital numbness and sexual dysfunction in female cyclists. Aim We aim to explore the associations between cycling characteristics, female genital numbness, and female sexual dysfunction. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study on female cyclists and sexual wellness. Participants were recruited through Facebook® advertisements and online outreach at athletic clubs. Participants were asked about their cycling characteristics, genital numbness, and female sexual function using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Univariate and multivariable linear and logistic regression were used to assess risk factors for genital numbness and the association between genital numbness and the FSFI. Outcome Measures The outcome measures were cycling characteristics, questions regarding numbness (intensity, duration, location), and the FSFI score. Results Eight-hundred and seventy-five women were included in the study. Total lifetime miles cycled, biking duration, frequency, distance, speed, and biking surface were not significantly associated with genital numbness. Higher handlebar height was associated with less numbness. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the cohort was 52%. Genital numbness was significantly associated with sexual dysfunction (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.05 – 1.95). Sub-group analysis for location of numbness demonstrated significant increase in risk for sexual dysfunction in cyclists who described numbness aro`und the perineum (OR: 2.72, 95% CI: 1.05 – 7.02) and the vulva (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.13 – 2.13). There was also a significant increase in the risk of sexual dysfunction in cyclists who reported a longer duration of numbness (OR: 6.58, 95% CI: 2.27 – 19.07). Conclusions Genital numbness is common in women who cycle and is associated with increased risk of FSD and lower average sexual response scores on FSFI. Lui H, Mmonu N, Awad MA, et al. Association of Bicycle-Related Genital Numbness and Female Sexual Dysfunction: Results From a Large, Multinational, Cross-Sectional Study. Sex Med 2021;9:100365.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hansen Lui
- Department of Urology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Nnenaya Mmonu
- Department of Urology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mohannad A Awad
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Vermont Medical Center; Burlington, VT, USA; Department of Surgery, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nikan K Namiri
- Department of Urology, University California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Micha Y Zheng
- Department of Urology, University California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gregory M Amend
- Department of Urology, University California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Benjamin N Breyer
- Department of Urology, University California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Clarsen B, Pluim BM, Moreno-Pérez V, Bigard X, Blauwet C, Del Coso J, Courel-Ibáñez J, Grimm K, Jones N, Kolman N, Mateo-March M, Pollastri L, López-Rodríguez C, Ortolano Ríos R, Roshon M, Hoyos Echevarría J, Madouas G, Nordhaug LP, Patricios J, Verhagen E. Methods for epidemiological studies in competitive cycling: an extension of the IOC consensus statement on methods for recording and reporting of epidemiological data on injury and illness in sport 2020. Br J Sports Med 2021; 55:1262-1269. [PMID: 33980546 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2020-103906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In 2020, the IOC released a consensus statement that provides overall guidelines for the recording and reporting of epidemiological data on injury and illness in sport. Some aspects of this statement need to be further specified on a sport-by-sport basis. To extend the IOC consensus statement on methods for recording and reporting of epidemiological data on injury and illness in sports and to meet the sport-specific requirements of all cycling disciplines regulated by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). A panel of 20 experts, all with experience in cycling or cycling medicine, participated in the drafting of this cycling-specific extension of the IOC consensus statement. In preparation, panel members were sent the IOC consensus statement, the first draft of this manuscript and a list of topics to be discussed. The expert panel met in July 2020 for a 1-day video conference to discuss the manuscript and specific topics. The final manuscript was developed in an iterative process involving all panel members. This paper extends the IOC consensus statement to provide cycling-specific recommendations on health problem definitions, mode of onset, injury mechanisms and circumstances, diagnosis classifications, exposure, study population characteristics and data collection methods. Recommendations apply to all UCI cycling disciplines, for both able-bodied cyclists and para-cyclists. The recommendations presented in this consensus statement will improve the consistency and accuracy of future epidemiological studies of injury and illness in cycling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Clarsen
- Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Disease Burden, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Babette M Pluim
- University of Pretoria Faculty of Health Sciences, Pretoria, South Africa
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health & Safety in Sports, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Movement Science, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Sports Medicine, Royal Netherlands Lawn Tennis Association (KNLTB), Amstelveen, The Netherlands
| | - Víctor Moreno-Pérez
- Center for Translational Research in Physiotherapy, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, Elche, Spain
- Medical Department, Spanish Cycling Federation, Madrid, Spain
| | - Xavier Bigard
- Medical Commission, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Aigle, Switzerland
| | - Cheri Blauwet
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Juan Del Coso
- Centre for Sport Studies, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Katharina Grimm
- Medical Commission, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Aigle, Switzerland
| | - Nigel Jones
- Medical Department, British Cycling, Manchester, UK
| | - Nikki Kolman
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity, Ede, The Netherlands
| | - Manuel Mateo-March
- Performance and Medical Department, Movistar Cycling team, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Michael Roshon
- Medical Department, USA Cycling, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Gwenaëlle Madouas
- Department of Medical Services, Fédération Française de Cyclisme, Brest, France
| | | | - Jon Patricios
- Wits Sport and Health (WiSH), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Evert Verhagen
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health & Safety in Sports, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Movement Science, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Larsen AST, Norheim KL, Marandi RZ, Hansen EA, Madeleine P. A field study investigating sensory manifestations in recreational female cyclists using a novel female-specific cycling pad. ERGONOMICS 2021; 64:571-581. [PMID: 33210555 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2020.1853819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This randomised controlled field study aimed to design a female-specific cycling pad with reduced padding in the crotch area (half-pad) and test its effects on self-reported sensory manifestations in comparison with full-padded cycling bib shorts. Recreational female road cyclists (n = 183) participated (divided into two groups). Self-reported sensory manifestations were collected six times over 12 weeks. Sitting discomfort, wetness perception, thermal, texture sensation, and wear discomfort decreased over time for the crotch and sitting-bones areas in both groups. Irritation and tenderness in the crotch area also decreased over time in both groups. Irritation and tenderness in the sitting-bones area were only higher at week two in the half-pad compared with the full-pad group. Cycling with the half-padded shorts compared with the full-padded ones had no negative effects on sensory manifestations beside the observed transient change at week two. This suggests that foam thickness in the crotch area can be reduced in female-specific cycling pads. Practitioner's Summary: Road cycling might result in discomfort and non-traumatic injuries in the female genital area. This field study compares two different cycling pads; a half-pad and a full-pad, over a 12-week period among female recreational road cyclists. Reducing the foam thickness in the crotch area of the pad does not change sensory manifestations, i.e. discomfort, wetness perception, texture-, and thermal-sensation as well as wear discomfort. Abbreviations: CS-Q: online Cycling bib Shorts Questionnaire; VADER: Valence Aware Dictionary and sEntiment Reasoner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sofie T Larsen
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- FUSION ApS, Svenstrup J, Denmark
| | - Kristoffer L Norheim
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ramtin Z Marandi
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ernst A Hansen
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Pascal Madeleine
- Sport Sciences - Performance and Technology, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bury K, Leavy JE, Lan C, O'Connor A, Jancey J. A Saddle sores among female competitive cyclists: A systematic scoping review. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 24:357-367. [PMID: 33109466 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Saddle sores are a prominent but an under investigated health issue among female competitive cyclists. To identify and describe existing evidence of the prevalence, prevention and treatment of saddle sores among female competitive cyclists. DESIGN Systematic scoping review and expert consultation. METHODS Primary studies and grey literature investigating saddle sores for competitive female cyclists were identified from six databases which were systematically searched (Medline; PubMed; Scopus; SPORTDiscus; Embase; Advanced Google Scholar) from 1990 onwards. An online survey was distributed to consultants in the female Australian competitive cycling community to obtain information and expert perspectives outside the published literature. RESULTS Of the 401 studies identified, 10 met the inclusion criteria - 4 were case-series, 4 were cross-sectional, and 2 were brief intervention trials. There was limited empirical evidence to determine the prevalence, and identify prevention and treatment approaches for saddle sores. Handlebar positioning relative to the saddle and reducing perineal pressure had some evidence. Saddle sore treatments appear to be limited to antibiotics and surgical intervention when they worsen or become infected. Yet, three-quarters of the consultants (n=16) indicated saddle sores were frequent among female competitive cyclists, identifying prevention and management strategies as topical creams, maintaining good hygiene, wearing appropriate clothing, leg elevation and taking time off the bike. CONCLUSIONS There is limited research investigating the prevalence, prevention and treatment of saddle sores among female competitive cyclists, although it has been described as a common occurrence by those in the cycling community. Research is required to understand its prevalence, along with trials to investigate prevention and management methods, so that evidence informed guidelines and/or protocols can be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keira Bury
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Justine E Leavy
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Charlene Lan
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Amanda O'Connor
- Amanda O'Connor, National Cycling Centre Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jonine Jancey
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Piazza N, Cerri G, Breda G, Paggiaro A. The effect of a new geometric bicycle saddle on the genital-perineal vascular perfusion of female cyclists. Sci Sports 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
8
|
Prevalence, Prevention and Treatment of Saddle Sores among Female Competitive Cyclists: A Scoping Review Protocol. Methods Protoc 2020; 3:mps3010004. [PMID: 31935936 PMCID: PMC7189673 DOI: 10.3390/mps3010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Female cyclists are prone to a variety of injuries and illnesses that occur as a result of prolonged contact with a bicycle saddle. Saddle sores are a range of skin ailments on the buttocks, genitals and inner thigh that result from a combination of friction, heat, pressure, moisture and bacteria in the saddle area. Whilst saddle sores are reportedly common, for some cyclists, the condition may cause only mild discomfort. However, for female competitive cyclists, the condition can be an ongoing source of pain and illness affecting participation and performance in the sport. Despite many online sources for health information and products for saddle sores, it is unknown what empirical evidence exists for the prevalence and severity of saddle sores, and for the effectiveness of prevention and treatment methods. This paper outlines the protocol for a scoping review, which aims to describe the empirical evidence for the prevalence, prevention and treatment of saddle sores among female competitive cyclists. Ethics approval has been obtained for this study from Curtin University's Human Research Ethics Committee no: HRE2019-0120. The findings from this study will contribute to the literature for injury in female sport.
Collapse
|