Citation

Ikpeze TC, Glaun G, McCalla D, Elfar JC. Geriatr Orthop Surg Rehabil 2018; 9: e2151458517748742.

Affiliation

Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/2151458517748742

PMID

29383267

PMCID

PMC5784561

Abstract

Nearly 1 in every 3 Americans ride bicycles each year, but only 20% of the reported 100 million cyclists ride on a weekly basis. Bicycling is a common form of transportation and recreation and has gained popularity among the elderly patients. In recent years, the number of elderly cyclists has increased steadily and studies have cited ease of use, need for exercise, and enjoyment as important contributing factors. The benefits of physical activity on health is well-documented, and elderly individuals are encouraged to remain active to reduce the progression of age-related weakness and loss of muscle mass. Safety concerns, however, have been a prevalent public health issue. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, elderly and teenage cyclists account for the highest number of head injuries and fatalities among all cyclists. Safety measures that include wearing protective gear such as helmets and choosing the appropriate bicycle have been recommended to minimize the risk of sustaining injuries while riding. Despite these concerns, bicycling has remained a popular and exciting activity for the elderly patients.

Language: en

Keywords

fragility fractures; geriatric medicine; geriatric trauma; physical medicine and rehabilitation; physical therapy