Motorcycles and Throttle Hand Pain: Why It Happens, and How to Prevent and Treat
It’s officially fall, and, as any avid motorcyclist can tell you, the perfect season for a long weekend cruise out in the countryside to spot the changing leaves. But a fun weekend can turn into an excruciating–and dangerous–experience if you’re suffering the severe, shooting pain, numbness, or tingling many bikers experience in their throttle hand. Read on to learn more about the conditions that may be causing the pain–and some tips for avoiding it!
What Happens
Usually, the pain is the result of grasping the throttle at a certain angle for an extended amount of time; your muscles cramp, compressing the nerves, which in turn causes pain and tingling. You may also have developed carpal tunnel syndrome or a form of tendonitis, so if this pain has become a recurring issue each time you ride, see a specialist. If your are already suffering from any hand or wrist conditions, deformities, or other issues, they may not improve without physical therapy, surgery or other medical intervention.
Prevention
There are several ways to prevent the pain and numbness associated with long rides.
Gloves: Always wear gloves with appropriate padding. Replace older gloves, which may have worn down or overly-compressed padding.
Throttle Rests and Assists: Throttle rests can help relieve some of the pressure on your wrist. They’re simple, inexpensive supportive devices that attach to the throttle–many are under $20. Throttle assists make it so that you don’t need to grip the throttle as tightly.
Grips: Consider replacing the grips on your bike with more comfortable versions–there are plenty designed specifically for this issue for under $50. Some even come with features like heating–terrific if you prefer the agility of thinner or fingerless gloves.
Warm Up, Cool Down, and Pull Over: Stretch and massage your fingers before and after going on rides, and at regular (try for hourly, minimum) intervals while you’re out.
Treatment
Non-invasive treatments include physical therapy, therapeutic massage, and, of course, rest–try to take a break from motorcycling for at least three days to give your hands and wrists a chance to heal.
Are you suffering from pain, numbness, or other symptoms in your throttle hand? Request an appointment with our specialists to find the treatment course that gets you back in weekend-warrior shape.
