Comments on: Day 3- San Diego

By: Karin Forkner

Karin Forkner — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 02:54:33 +0000

Ryan, I have a TENS unit above the garage. I need to get up there and find it, charge it, and then let you know. Once I find it, I’ll write or call and try to get it to you for the rest of the trip. I’ll let you know in the next day or two. Karin

By: Pete

Pete — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 12:06:47 +0000

I forgot to mention, because I assumed it, but also be sure you aren’t mashing too big a gear. That can be tough on the knees.

If you are using clipless pedals experiment with rotataing the heel in or out a degree or two and see if it helps. Sometimes that is all it takes.

By: usuk

usuk — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 03:59:50 +0000

Ibuprofin (NSAIDs) is crucial. I developed bursitis on my sitbones from several back to back centuries. A few weeks off the bike and ibuprofin helped a lot, it’ll do the same for the knees. The thing is not to push yourself if your body is really telling you not to, that can lead to nasty injuries.

By: Pete

Pete — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:57:19 +0000

Finishing a trip like this is about 90% mental. You do need to take care of yourself though. If your knees are already bothering you and you are not yet carrying camping gear it may be a bike fit issue. Please try moving the saddle a bit in very small increments maybe down and maybe fore and aft. An eighth of an inch makes a difference. Also ibuprofen helps control the inflammation.

Enjoy the trip and especially the people you meet. They are a big part of what touring is all about.

I wish you success and hope the trip is a life changing experience for you.