Unfortunately, I have the feeling that the title of this post maybe a bit misleading and apologise for any upset caused.
A while ago there was a post discussing a common problem among riders regarding arm pump. As a competitive racer for a number of years and quite an active person (karate and rock climbing) my arms have taken quite a bit of punishment over my 23 year life so far. For those that don't know, arm pump is a sensation that causes a loss of feeling in the hands, caused basically by blood flowing into the muscle and not being able to get out quick enough. This is something that put my racing career on hold as I can't hang onto the bike for four laps.
For many road riders, this can be alleviated by using bigger handlebar grips, heated grips and changing the angle of the wrist to reduce the pressure. Normally associated with carpel tunnel (nerve trapping through the wrist). However arm pump is a bit more serious and is termed as compartment syndrome.
Luckily for me I have had a fantastic orthopedic surgeon who has performed a Bi-lateral Fasciotomy to release the pressure in the forearm muscle compartment which should reduced/eliminate the problem. I had this done on 6th feb and it has been a bit interesting to say the least. hopefully be back on a bike for the ride out on the 4th but will have to see
Morphine is a fantastic drug
