Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
Bicycles can serve as a form of transportation, a fun toy and a fitness tool. With the weather warming up and schools letting out, adults are cycling to stay in shape and kids are hitting the streets on two wheels. This week on Health Watch, we'll talk about some ways to make sure you're cycling safely.
Dr. Luis Palacios, a family and community medicine expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas and an avid cyclist, says the first step toward safe cycling is getting a bike that fits you properly. A seat that's too high or low can cause back, hip or knee pain. A good bicycle shop can help you choose the bike that's right for you. Because kids grow so quickly, you may need to have their bikes adjusted every so often so they'll still be a good fit.
Next: Protecting your head.
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June 2006
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