In cycling, the occasional tumble is almost a rite of passage.
A wobble at the traffic light. A skid on wet pavement. A slow-motion fall when your cleat refuses to unclip.
Most riders, whether seasoned or new, are quick to dust themselves off and carry on. But sometimes, what seems like a minor spill can leave behind more than just a bruised ego. That nagging wrist pain, that stubborn hip soreness, they could be early signs of a more serious injury.
As OCBC Cycle 2025 approaches and many riders ramp up their training, it’s a good time to ask: When is a fall “just a fall”, and when should you see an orthopaedic doctor?
Common Cycling Injuries That Are Easy to Miss
Not every cycling injury is obvious. In fact, some of the most com
- Wrist Fractures
Landing instinctively on an outstretched hand can easily lead to fractures of the wrist bones, particularly the scaphoid. These fractures often present with only mild swelling or aching at first but can lead to serious complications if left untreated. - Shoulder Dislocations or Sprains
A direct fall onto the shoulder can cause dislocation or ligament injuries. You might notice pain, weakness, or a sense that your shoulder feels “loose”, all signs that deserve medical attention. - Hip Contusions and Labral Injuries
A hard landing on the hip can cause deep bruising or even injure the hip labrum (the cartilage ring around the hip joint). Pain that lingers in the groin or side of the hip shouldn’t be ignored. - Knee Trauma
Direct blows to the knee can cause ligament sprains, meniscus tears, or even subtle fractures, particularly in the patella (kneecap).
Warning Signs Your Injury Might Be More Serious
While some soreness is expected after a fall, certain symptoms are red flags that something more serious could be going on:
- Pain that doesn’t improve after a few days of rest
- Swelling that persists or worsens
- Inability to bear weight or use the affected limb normally
- Clicking, locking, or instability in a joint
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth getting checked by an orthopaedic specialist. Early evaluation can often prevent a small issue from turning into a bigger, longer-term problem.
Why Early Orthopaedic Care Matters
Cyclists, especially those who love the sport, are often reluctant to “make a fuss” about injuries. But leaving a fracture, dislocation, or soft tissue tear untreated can delay healing, cause chronic pain, or even lead to permanent joint damage.
At The Orthopaedic Practice and Surgery (TOPS), we work closely with active individuals, from weekend cyclists to elite athletes, to get them back on the move safely and confidently.
Our approach focuses on:
- Diagnosis through clinical examination and imaging
- Personalised treatment plans (ranging from splinting and physiotherapy to surgical repair if necessary)
- Rehabilitation and return-to-sport programs tailored to your fitness goals
Whether you need a simple wrist splint, help rehabbing a shoulder injury, or management for more complex trauma, our specialists are here to guide your recovery every step of the way.
Keep Riding Strong, and Smart
Cycling is one of the best ways to stay fit, explore Singapore’s beautiful roads, and challenge yourself. But staying in the saddle for the long term means knowing when to listen to your body, and when to seek help.
If you’ve had a recent fall and something just doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Early orthopaedic care can make the difference between a short recovery and a season-long setback.
Don’t let a minor crash turn into a major roadblock. Book an appointment with our team at TOPS and get back to doing what you love, safely and confidently.
Injured in a recent fall? Let’s get you back on your bike.
