Cyclists risk nerve damage from uneven street surfaces

Description

An innovative measuring “databike”, plans to devise a cycling vibration route map to help riders avoid the worst stretches and highlight areas for improvement. The study was origniated by Dr Mark Taylor from Napier University who built and calibrated the "databike".

Prof Chris Oliver has provided expert medical advice and says the vibrations transmitted from some surfaces to cyclists’ hands, arms and wrists can cause Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). This can equate to significant damage to nerves and blood vessels in the arms. It can include numbness in the fingers and cold can trigger painful finger blanching attacks. HAVS can be a disability and can prevent people cycling, especially in our cold winters.