My first post and it's about my bum - sorry!
I've been into various types of cycling for ages - then got into riding 200ks approx 2 or 3 years ago. Up to that point I'd never had any issues with saddle/bum issues. Last August I did my first hilly 300k on a very warm day. I enjoyed it immensely but unfortunately got a really sore backside and am still suffering the consequences in Feb.
A week post ride I saw my GP who gave me some canesten HC which helped clear up an obvious sweat rash. I rode a 200k several weeks later which ended in me being in severe discomfort and I've been struggling with bum issues and limited distance ever since.
Basically what I have is mostly focused on the area underneath my left sitbone, it ACHES all the time, I can't really feel any lumps or anything. I have a red patch around that area but the skin is completely intact - it feels internal.
I rode approx 30-40miles on saturday and my bum cheek was bright red, stung and really ached, the area under the sitbone was an even darker red and didn't look good at all. It usually doesn't look too bad day to day and when I've visited the GP - but cycling really sets it off. I don't know exactly what it it is I've done - the GPs don't seem to either - ?some type of pressure sore, aggravated scar tissue, muscle damage, infection - not sure.
Here's a list of things I've tried and am implementing:
- Seen two different GPs (both cyclists) who've recommended stretching, time off the bike (I did 6 weeks at least - didn't help as I still have the problem), Canesten HC (helped the immediate skin issue after the ride) , Antibiotic cream (didn't help).
- I'm implementing vigorous hygiene; always showering pre ride, airing my bum when possible on toilet stops, getting out of shorts asap post ride, babywipes after every sit down toilet, showering asap post ride.
- I've trialled several saddles including an SMP composit which i think would be the saddle for me - if I didn't have this issue already.
I'm planning on trying to lose weight - I have approx 1 to possibly 2kg I could lose.
- I'm doing stretches and core strength exercises.
- getting out of the saddle regularly.
- Have tried several different chamois creams: bum butter, chapeau, conotrane, sudocrem, and tried also nothing at all.
- My diet is pretty good.
- I've had a bike fit and am experimenting with saddle height.
- I'm swimming and running more to compensate for the lack of cycling
- I've invested in better bibs too.
I go out with a race club and do short fast club runs - but my passion is fast touring and audax and its so frustrating to not be able to get out there.
I'd greatly appreciate it if anyone has any ideas/thoughts/suggestions as it's making me miserable and it feels like its not ever going to go away!