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What Should I Do After a Minor Crash?

Question: Yesterday I went down hard on a sharp downhill curve. Ouch! Nine stitches in my left hand and I have a hip sprain. What’s the best way to recover? — Tom B.

Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The usual advice is to pump ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling. Apply ice to your hip (and maybe your hand) for 20-minute intervals several times a day.

Keep your legs moving, too, to limit stiffness and retain your range of motion. Probably the best tactic is to pedal on your indoor trainer.

This will let you “ride” without using your injured hand very much. Spin easy so you won’t strain your hip till it’s ready for more activity.

Spinning this way increases circulation, which is thought to quicken healing by moving more blood through injured areas. It’s good for your head, too, to continue exercising despite the accident.

Go easy! You’ll know when it’s time to get back on the road.

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