Why do muscles feel stiff after falling off?

liamcorrigan

I had a very silly off yesterday - riding across some wet tiled paving yesterday at about 4mph and both wheels went out from underneath me. Aside from a slightly bruised bum the only thing damaged was my pride as I couldn't have chosen a more public place for it but this morning I'm very stiff. I've experienced the same thing before with more serious mishaps and know it's a common phenomenon. Got me curious about what the physiological reason for it was. Anyone know? Something to do with tensing for impact maybe?

Cheers!

Jules Winnfield

You said it bud, tensing up then suffering an impact is most likely to cause a strain and stiffness. It's why people suffer whiplash in car road traffic accidents. But let's be honest, there is no way to avoid it either. It's natural to brace yourself for impact when you fall.

donkykong

best solution i can offer, after i had a massive crash 10 years ago, was after getting checked out at a excellent sports injury guy i know, Martin Earley, based near stoke on trent.
(pm me if you need his contact details.)
was just riding the bike, you will soon get your confidence back, and feel relaxed again.
good luck