[ETC-Discussion] Physical therapist/Orthopedist recommendation?

[Tom Condon]

David/Nancy Hughart wrote:
> My wife and I are new to tandemming and ETC, and started training to do the STP.   We've had to give that goal up this year because she has started getting knee pain.   We would like to find a physical therapist or orthopedist with enough experience dealing with cycling aches and pains to help figure out which of the various kinds of knee problems this is and advise on whether it would help to raise/lower the saddle or change to pedals with more/less float.   Can any of you recommend someone in the Seattle area?   Thanks,

David,

I agree with the previous comments - get a professional fit.  And get 
the knee looked at by professionals - you want to keep using it for 
years to come, so treat it as precious.

I had the same troubles a few years back, and I had to drop out of STP 
one year (solo, not tandem).  So I know what your wife is going through.

I found out a few things about knee problems, though, while I was 
re-habbing my knee.

If you wish to try a few adjustments to see if you can ease things until 
you get a professional fit, here are some guidelines.  The rule of thumb 
with knee pain while cycling is to locate the pain.  Pain in the front 
of the knee (it feels like it is behind the knee-cap) is usually a sign 
of a seat too low.  Pain on the back of the knee is usually a sign that 
the seat is too high.


In A Chord,

Tom Condon
Bass, Agate Passage Quartet
Treasurer, Bass & Proud Member, Kitsap Chordsmen

It's so hard when I have to, And so easy when I want to.
	- Sondra Anice Barnes