msz

Any ideas for riding with saddle sores? I don't want to stop training, and I can live with the pain, but I am sure it is not good for my body. Any recomendations for prevention as well. I know the basic stuff, but I am sure there are probably some pro secrets to help. Thanks

RobRyb

See a doctor. If it's a bacterial infection, antibiotics will clear things up in a few days. Also, take a hot, soapy bath once a week to keep them from coming back. Shower soon after a ride. Finally, make sure your cycling clothes are clean when you put them on.

Rob

msz

Thanks, not to be gross, but the sore is the time that feels like a small mass underneath the skin.

Maj.Taylor

Hydrocortisone and an antibiotic like Neosporin should help. Given the cost of a doctor's visit, I save that as last resort. (And, the heavy-duty antibiotics prescribed will not be cheap at all.) Warning: the topical meds will likely bring the thing to a head. You can then lance it. However, expect some pretty nasty stuff to come out. Once it does, clean it up and stay off the bike for a day or so to allow it to finish healing.

Also, unless they're really, really bad I find once I sit on it for a while, the pain deadens. You might also try a topical anesthetic to get you through it while it hurts.

As for prevention, I've found washing your crotch both before and after a ride helps a great deal. Riders don't usually think about cleaning down there before their rides. I also apply a very light coating of the hydrocortisone and antibiotic every 2-3 days to keep them at bay. It seems to help me a great deal. Be certain not to use the hydrocortisone very often. Applying it too often when there's no active sore will actually damage the skin and possibly make it more susceptible to future sores.