As the cyclist leans forward into a more aero position, this percentage increases, thus increasing the pressures on the blood vessels and nerves. Previous studies found 40-70 percent of female cyclists experience genital numbness with a traditional saddle.7,8 NIOSH and researchers from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore Medical Center investigated the relationship between frequent and/or endurance bicycling on neurological and sexual function in women.9 The study concluded that there is an association between bicycling and decreased genital sensation in competitive female bicyclists. Likewise, dont go for extra-soft padding, as the seat will feel hard. The NIOSH Research Team has been studying bicycle saddle pressure and reproductive health since 2000. The study found that the traditional sport/racing saddle was associated with more than two times the pressure in the perineal region than the saddles without a protruding nose. Putting the saddle nose pointing a bit to the floor seems that helps. Mr. Breitenstein is a biologist in Reproductive Health Assessment Team within the Biomonitoring and Health Assessment Branch, DART. NOSH has always advocated proper bicycle fit and has recommended that occupational cyclists seek the assistance of a bike fit specialist. JavaScript is disabled. I would love to see similar rigor in comparing the single-pad design class to the swivel Hobson class and in comparing the common chafing pains from nosed versus noseless saddles. Let me use research to shed more light on that. In several internet searches, I have not been able to find a noseless saddle that looks like it was designed for an aerodynamic road bike position. I hope you continue to be free of any adverse effects. Besides the effects of pressure, is there any strong evidence of negative effects of heat on reproductive health in occupational bicyclists? This is particularly timely bearing in mind the increase in the number of bike riders seeing bikes as an alternative, environmentally friendly ( but perhaps not conducive to good sexual health) form of transport. Noseless saddles reduce perineum pressure and improve blood flow around the genitals. If this is a public health issue, more further information is needed urgently for the users, constructors and UCI. Using a no-nose saddle has changed my lifetruly! As a result, they reduce excess pressure on the perineum area, which causes perineum numbness, tingling, and pain. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently released a Workplace Solutions document titled No-nose Saddles for Preventing Genital Numbness and Sexual Dysfunction in Occupational Bicycling, which summarizes NIOSH research and recommendations. An internet search will show the location of these structures. One way to do that is by doing away with the traditional thick nose saddle. I wondered when I bought the no-nose saddle if it would be hard to get used to, but it wasnt. I spent 250 euros for the saddle, shipping and taxes to Spain, and also more than 150 euros adapting both bikes. Numbness and pain are almost ALWAYS a function of improper fit and placement of the pelvis on the saddle. Great article, i really love the way you described how can bicycle saddles prevent the injuries a sexual dysfunction. If the saddle nose is supporting part of your body weight, you are compressing blood vessels and nerves in the groin. Great information though. Anecdotal reports from bicyclists had indicated that genital numbness, erectile dysfunction, and impotence are a concern. Pain and/or numbness are medical warning signs. Therefore, its width should be slightly wider than the width of your sit bones by about 2cm. ISM PR.3.0 promises to improve blood flow and reduce numbness. Check out what customers think about the ISM PR 3.0 Saddle. Thank you for your posting. Bicycle riding sets off a flareup of the IC. The actual nerve location in men and women are very similar. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As I mentioned earlier, the problem is that the nose often becomes bothersome since it rubs against the thighs. Best Dirt Bikes For Big Guys An Ultimate Buying Guide! However, the most recent NIOSH study4 showed that 96% of bike patrol officers who tried a no-nose saddle continued to use a no-nose saddle beyond the study completion, suggesting that these individuals were able to overcome initial perceptions of decreased stability. Unfortunately for me, handling and body english frequently employ a saddle nose. Generally speaking, most cyclists are not professional riders. Both options are okay, but it all depends on your preference. I havent spent much time on them but I feel awkward using them. https://electricbikereview.com/forums/threads/longest-rides.27478/#post-190956, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000AOA66Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1, Dropper Seat Post Helps with Leg Disability. But thats not the only problem. Bike Finest is your ultimate resource for learning everything about bikes and cycling. Some saddles promote an upright position while other will promote a more forward aero position. I believe manufacturer of bike companies should redesign there bikes. The no-nose saddle was the best purchase I have made for my road bike and my body. For the past 7 months I have been riding regularly and participating in recreational competitions. So our research and conclusions are based on saddles without a protruding nose and not a specific brand or design. Even though a nosed saddle allows you to control the bike with your thighs easily, the nose rubs against the thigh and often becomes bothersome. Another great idea are foldable bikes, everything (including the seat) are adjustable. (Answered! But are noseless saddles good? Great study! You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link. So, they are not just funnier to use but also healthier and, as a result, a good investment for both men and women. What is enlightening here is the the use of well documented research data that you have provided. This is super helpful information. Some published scientific studies have actually shown some split saddles increase the pressure on the blood vessels because the edge of the groove aligns with these vessels. But didnt knew how. I am a professional bicycle fitter. No numbness, no ED, just soreness. What bicycle seat is recommended for an Interstitial Cystitis patient, recreational rider, on a 2012 17 (product name removed) upright hybrid bike? Oh wow. You also have to worry about compressing the perineum area and a slim chance of suffering sexual dysfunction. There's this misconception that there aren't dirt bikes for big guys, and if there are any, the options are rare. link to But How Fast Does a Razor Dirt Bike Go? I tryed several combinations almost during six months in MTB and road bike, transforming them almost in cruisers. Im convinced the saddle angle is very important when using no-nose saddles. There are more than a dozen different no-nose saddles available. That, however, is not the case with noseless options. I think that use of a no-nose saddle may require different saddle height and angle adjustments. Our study was designed to evaluate the concept of no-nose saddles and not to compare the various saddle brands or designs. Plus, it fits a majority of traditional bikes and even stationary bikes. On women, the nerves run along the sides of the vagina so unless the hole is wide enough, it doesnt work. I threw my Pedego seat in the trash years ago, and never looked back. Dismount the bicycle when at a standstill. Gonzalo de las Casas Cmara MD, PhD, MPH. Instep Bike Trailer Weight Limit Revealed and Compared. document.getElementById( "ak_js" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); To receive email updates about this page, enter your email address: All comments posted become a part of the public domain, and users are responsible for their comments. If there were a control problem with these saddles, we believe that police officers would not have continued their use. Ive recently started commuting on my and now I am getting an achy soreness in my testes and groin. I can still maneuver as well as ever by using my body weight more during turns. Copyright 2012-2022 EBR Electric Bike Review, Inc. Also operating under the name EBR. Impressively, it puts you in an upright posture when cycling to relieve you from spinal pressure. Seek guidance on proper bicycle fit from a trained bicycle fit specialist. Thank you for your post! So, you need an XTRA wide noseless bike seat that can support your sit bones well. Has anyone with ED recovered health while still biking when using the no-nose seat? Informative blog. Bike Finest is your ultimate resource for learning everything about bikes and cycling or any information when trying to find the right bike for you. Oddly enough, even thought I am a licensed chiropractor I always heard that riding a bike could cause issues over time but I never fully understood why. I worry about ability to put power into my bike on a saddle with no nose. As you have indicated, within a short time of using no-nose saddles, there is very little, if any loss of control. A recent study10 has shown that cyclists initially have a perception of decreased stability when beginning to use a no-nose saddle. I have fit over 1500 riders in the past 10 years and only 1 has had a consistent problem that, in the end, forced him to stop riding long distances because of penile numbness. The study found a 66% reduction in saddle contact pressure in the perineal region, a significant improvement in penis tactile sensation, and a significant improvement in erectile function. Their dirt bikes aren't the speediest, making them safer than most of their competition. So, it has to come in the right shape. Ill also help you find your ideal noseless saddle. I also perform upwards of 165 re-fits per cycling season. We need to continually remind cyclists the importance of proper bicycle fit. CDC twenty four seven. I used the Hobson seat and the seat pads move with you legs as you pedal its wonderful. A very upright riding position is not something that your could get in your MTB or road bike, even transforming completely your bike, as I did. Bicycling without a nose certainly takes some getting used to but the long-term benefits have been well articulated above. A rider may consider changing the angle of the seat, which should be angled parallel to the ground or slightly forward, to help alleviate pressure on the perineum. Generally, trapping of moisture and heat can lead to chafing in the groin area. More information on no-nose bicycle saddles can be found on the NIOSH Bicycle Saddles and Reproductive Health topic page and in the new NIOSH Workplace Solutions document, No-nose Saddles for Preventing Genital Numbness and Sexual Dysfunction in Occupational Bicycling. Remarkably, it comes with a cutout to offer you additional perineum relief. Best regards, The no-nose saddle has relieved the genital numbness and my erectile and sexual functioning has improved. It is very uncomfortable as a man with short legs, and trying to balance the bike, while both feet are planted flat on the ground. But I appreciate your discipline in not commenting beyond the actual scope of your testing. Looking at the various no-nose saddles available, one should select a saddle that fits them and their riding style. However, 25% or more of the body weight is supported where the groin contacts the saddle nose. Wow, great article, I really appreciate your thought process and having it explained properly, thank you! con la silla sin nariz me he aliviado del entumecimineto genital y mi comportamiento erectil y sexual ha mejorado. I am trying to get use to a no nose saddle I have bought an addapble stem, but is not enought to relieve the excess of pressure in hands, and to do not fall, and I decided to buy a extender of the fork. Dismount the bicycle if you begin to have numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling in any part of your body. As you indicate, the saddle angle is very important when using no-nose saddles. The closer idea to the concept that I tested is duopower is not very comfortable at the begining and is not a total no-nose saddle, but is closer, you do not need to change things in your bike and is easy to get used to it. There are a wide variety of no-nose saddles on the market. However, bicycle fit alone can not eliminate pressure to the groin from a traditional nosed saddle. I am hoping through custom, individual fitting, focused on isolation and support of sit bones, that I can produce a steering nose that never requires (25%) seated weight. I think the noseless bike seats are a great idea! The good thing about a noseless bike saddle is that it improves blood flow and reduces inter-thigh rubbing, thus lowering the risk of sexual dysfunction. I am dissapointed, I tried EVERYTHING with a no-nose saddle http://www.spiderflex.com/. Also I am middle aged so have more to worry about w/ those issues. And once you find the right saddle, you will wonder why you didnt get one sooner. Does heat play a roll in reproductive problems in occupational cyclists? We all recognize that no disease or aliment affects everyone. link to Best Dirt Bikes For Big Guys An Ultimate Buying Guide! If the first on you try doesnt work for you, keep trying. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website. I partake in triathlons now and, only just recently have I perfected my ride position. I'm going to necro this thread because I found this topic interesting. In fact some individuals presenting with sexual dysfunction have not indicated urogenital numbness or pain. I am thinking that nose-less seat may be the way to go, given that I want to keep riding. The saddle is not suitable for mountainbikes and roadbikes. You can take to the park, on the bus, to the mall. The blood vessels do not run down the center of the groin but instead off center. I'm glad you found a comfortable seat ebikemom! I have been looking at one called a spongy wonder. I do take breaks and walk my bike as well when I go for the day, which helps too. Im convinced youll find one to fit you and your riding needs. You can check out this budget-friendly noseless saddle on Amazon. Kind regards I still get a little numbness in the perennial area in longer rides though. Thanks for offering this important, well-grounded insight. But before that, let understand why bike saddles come with a nose and why you may find it necessary to do away with it. Some sporty aero cyclists actually pedal positioned on the nose at times-cant be comfortable. Research has shown that pressure on these nerves and arteries over time may lead to a loss of sensation and a decrease in blood supply to the genitals. ), Weehoo Bike Trailer Weight Limit (4 Trailers Weight Capacity). This is also part of recommendations of the NIOSH Workplace Solutions Document. I am preparing to prototype saddle designs which provide comfort while maintaining handling (cornering) capabilities-as a commuter, my handlebars are at saddle level. Its good to see NIOSH responding to comments, even the more controversial ones. For that reason, its a great choice when you are struggling to find a comfortable posture. I would suggest you continue to look for the one that best fits your body structure and riding style. Great article. But as I pedal, I can feel the seat moving--as a leg pedals downward, the seat pad also tips downward a bit. Once properly fit these issues are usually alleviated. As we continue our research, we would like to hear about your experiences with no-nose saddles. Pain and numbness are never normal and should never be ignored whether in groin, the wrist, or any other part of the body. Compared to traditional nosed saddles, noseless saddles distribute your body weight better to reduce excess perineum pressure and improve blood supply in the perineum area. I can go on an all day cruise without a problem. *Note: Any references to products in comments posted on the CDC NIOSH Science Blog are not endorsed nor approved by the National Institutes for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). According to a Harvard Report, prolonged seating on a nosed saddle puts too much pressure on the perineum area. As mentioned in the Workplace Solutions document, a no-nose saddle will feel different. I realize that I have always done everything wrong , I need to change my habits urgently, Hello, I am here again. While noseless saddles can improve blood flow and reduce perineum pressure, they are not the only sure fix to saddle discomfort. So, now I am going to try the Planet Bike 5018 ARS anatomic seat which is shorter than most womens saddles, and has more padding. I think I would definitely have had a professional bike fit in the future, especial if I buy a new bike. I think it would good to know which model uses the Police in Chicago, how many kilometers without stop they usually do and in what adaptations they needed. I heard about cycle causing erectile dysfunction. The nose of the saddle has always been an issue in the tri-position on the bike, and lowering it only raises your rear end due to the sea saw effect. ), What Age Can a Child Use a Bike Trailer (Answered! Bicycle control seems to be the biggest concern expressed when cyclists are considering a no-nose saddle. By the way I couldnt help thinking of Lance Armstrong and his fight with testicular cancer reading this. Numbness in the groin or genitals is a warning sign that should not be ignored. Thank you for your post. That is great! Co-Owner HubBub Custom Bicycles I was diagnosed with IC in 1994. After using the noseless seat for some time now it is difficult to understand why seats were made with a nose in the first place. You are perched on top of the bike rather than straddling it. My saddle with a nose seems to be of a much more modern design than the one you chose, why should I beleive that a saddle which is raised in the center is representative of saddles which have a valley through the center? Do not lean against a post or other object to stay seated on the bicycle saddle when you are not riding. raised PSA levels? Nothing worked more than 1 hour or than 15 kms, I had pain in my wrist and arms. It's a bit of a tipping forward and back. Contrary to some cyclists belief, it is not normal for any part of your body to go numb or lose feeling. These structures are blood filled erectile tissue. Para mi fue la solucin para el entumecimiento genital que lo sentia durante todo el tiempo que permanecia montado en la bicicleta. This summary was perfect. When looking at the various no-nose saddles available, one should select a saddle that fits them and their riding style. All the best in future work! Bike set up is a very personal thing in my experience, and can take an age to get right. Use of a no-nose saddle may require different saddle height and angle adjustments. Instead, go for lighter padding. Nice discussion. I would stand while riding, even on flat roads and flat bike trails, just to give myself a break from the discomfort. That means that women can lower such risks by switching to the best noseless bicycle seat. My latest seat is split down the center to relieve pressure and is ultra comfy. My opinion is that spiderflex is a comfortable saddle with no nose but is only appropiate for cruisers (probably like all complete no-nose saddle). Finding a saddle that is comfortable for you is important. The best part is that this noseless saddle comes on a budget. They all look like if you are in a semihorizontal aerodynamic position, the front edge of the saddle will cut into the back of your thighs when at the bottom of the pedal stroke, and your arms will have to support much more weight. Understandably, a traditional nosed saddle puts up to 45% of your body weight on the perineums blood vessels and nerves. Thanks for the review. Were passionate about bikes and love sharing everything we learn about them. Due to circulation issues, I wouldn't be riding at all without one. information posted by individuals on this site is correct, and disclaims any liability for any So, they have to be strong. For that reason, male cyclists who ride regularly need to take extra precautions to prevent the risk of erectile dysfunction. Also, I have not seen a listed saddle weight under 600 grams, more than double what a good road bike saddle weighs. People indicate that lowering the saddle or raising the handlebars can relieve some the hand pressure. Soreness in the testes, groin, or any other part of the body, should be evaluated by a medical professional. I have proper bike fit and experienced numbness and fatigue. In our study, only 3 of 91 bicycle police officers returned to traditional saddles indicating a wide acceptance of the noseless saddle. Where can I buy them? This percentage greatly increases as the cyclist leans forward in more aerodynamic positions. I bought one and take it with me everywhere I go. The saddle also enjoys an extra-wide design to reduce pressure points and improve your seat comfort. Ideally, the weight of the cyclist supported on the saddle should be under the pelvic sit bones. Chesterland, Ohio Additional research is warranted to further examine these issues among female cyclists. I didnt know it has that effect on our bodies. The price range can vary from $25-$275. No-nose saddles may not always be available at retail bicycle shops, but they are readily available for purchase through the Internet. There are several styles and manufacturers of no-nose saddles which can be found on the Internet by searching no-nose or noseless saddles. At first, it may seem very different from the saddle you have used in the past. I just did that and will test. Your saddle should come with just enough padding.