Icy ground and snow can be extremely hazardous for cyclists so changing to winter tyres can allow you to enjoy your sport or continue to cycle to and from work.

The Sportsphysio.com is keen to ensure cyclists stay safe this winter and there are many products on the market now which allow us to carry on our normal activity with a little more confidence in icy weather.

Ice and snow grip overshoes provide those on foot with extra traction and this technology is also available to cyclists.

We have selected the Schwalbe ice and snow tyre range in conjuction with a major cycle equipment supplier to help our cyclists stay on two wheels this winter.

Schwalbe winter cycle tyre range

With the Ice Spiker Kevlar rigid tyre you’re properly prepared for the extreme Winter riding. 304 specially long spikes offer maximum purchase on snow and ice.

The Ice Spiker Pro Performance Folding MTB Tyre has 361 spikes.  Again, this Kevlar tyre bites firmly into icy roads. The tungsten carbide core of each spike is clad in weight-saving aluminium. The scales stop at 695g, yet the tyre remains agile and sporty for extreme winter cycling.

Schwalbe Snow Stud Performance Kevlar Rigid MTB Tyres are suitable for extreme weather use when ice is a possibility! For many of us who live in more temperate regions, the likelihood of a midday thaw followed by an overnight freeze means that ice may be frequently encountered.
   
Whether off-road or on-road this is where studs come into their own. They are not failsafe, and you still need to treat ice with due respect, but studs do offer a big improvement in control to the extent that you can easily be lulled into a false sense of security, only to slip straight onto your backside soon after stepping off the bike.

Studs are available as off-road tyres with wide spaced lugs, or on road tyres with a much closer spaced tread. It should be noted that compared to regular tyres, there is increased rolling resistance (making pedalling harder), and the studs can be pretty noisy on bare roads.

In climates where snow and ice persist through the winter, riders would tend to use studs or spikes throughout the season, whereas in regions such as the UK where ice is a more sporadic event, a quick change of tyres or even better a spare set of wheels made up ready seems to be the more efficient approach.

Are Spikes legal?

In some countries spiked car tyres are illegal, because they damage the road surface. Bicycle tyre spikes are not a problem. The spikes work best on ice when running at minimum pressure, whilst at maximum pressure the tyres can be ridden on ice-free roads with minimal road noise. In order to ensure that spikes are permanently fixed, tyres should be run in for about 40km on asphalt, while avoiding any fast acceleration or heavy braking.

About Schwalbe MTB Off-Road Tyres

These tyres are for mountain bikes and intended primarily for off road use, the knobbly patterns provide grip when steering and traction when applying power to the pedals. There is usually a tyre to suit the conditions in which you are riding, so the right choice is important.

On dry days a narrow tyre with a smoother central tread can be used, but on a wet day a wider tyre with a deeper knobbly tread pattern is essential or you could be the one in contact with the mud.

About the Schwalbe brand

For over 70 years Schwalbe have dominated the two wheeled tyre industry in Germany and Europe, being voted best MTB tyre brand in Germany for the past two years.

Schwalbe have continued to design and manufacture some of the finest bicycle tyres available. Schwalbe’s success is due in part to the effort it makes in product development from lab tests at the manufacturing facility to the hardest proving grounds of all, professional cycle racing.

‘Team Gerolsteiner’ achieved a very creditable 7th place overall in the 2004 Tour de France and the unique performance of team captain Davide Rebellin winning three major classic races back to back using Schwalbe tyre. Other notable succeses include Normann Stadler winning the infamous Ironman triathlon in Hawaii, riding Schwalbe Stelvio tyres.

View or purchase the full range of Schwalbe winter cycle tyres.

These incredibly useful ice grips make all the difference between carrying on as normal or being a slave to the British weather.

Injuries last year from falls on snow and ice ranged from sprained wrists and ankles to fractured collar bones and hips, some a minor inconvenience

Simple and effective Due North Ice and Snow grips

whilst others involved major surgery and permanent disability.

We obtained our ice grippers a couple of years ago and have been singing their praises ever since, but by the time snow and ice arrived in November last year, many places sold out within a week or two.

This year, we are reminding people to get their orders in now, as many manufacturers and retailers are expecting another hard winter and high demand.

You can carry on with your outdoor activity, shopping and walking the dogs with much more confidence.

How do they work

A simple but strong rubber overshoe stretches around the sole of your shoe or boot.  This device has small tungsten carbide spikes embedded in the forefoot and heel region which grab into the snow and ice allowing us to walk about as if the surface was dry.

There are many types on the market, some with a coiled spring under the sole and some with spikes.  After testing these, we have to say that in our region where black ice and snow are regularly present together, the spike variety offers the best traction on both surfaces.

The ease with which they can be used also means that they can be easily removed when entering shops and buildings where the spikes would damage the floor.

Where to get them

The Sportsphysio.com is now offering Due North Traction Aids ice and snow grips by secure online order via our affiliation with a major reputable outdoor gear supplier.

These simple to fit ice and snow overshoes provide instant grip to any footwear in ice and snow. (Must have a reasonably wide, low heel to work effectively).

We chose the Due North range because they are simple to use at a very reasonable price.  They are also the only range we have found to date that offer spare replacement tungsten carbide spikes should you lose or damage one.

Buy now

The Sportsphysio injury clinic specialises in gait analysis and biomechanics. Skilled thorough assessment is essential when treating gait problems, with every aspect of biomechanics taken into account from the foot to the spine.

The Foot Problem
As we walk, the foot strikes the ground slightly on the outer side of the heel.  Natural forces encourage the foot to roll inward slightly (pronate) before lifting off using the big toe as a lever. In effect, your foot acts like a spring.

In some feet, this leaning inward (pronation) of the midfoot and heel is excessive and causes strain to the joints and supporting ligaments of the foot.  Painful symptoms in the foot, lower leg and knee may develop with some of the worst cases causing pain in the lower back and loss of core stability. The “spring” effect of the foot is lost.

To prevent this from happening, the heel should remain vertical, the medial arch supported and pressure distributed evenly through the forefoot.

Of course, there are people who place too much pressure on the outside of the foot (Supination).  Although this is not as common, it can also cause foot pain and symptoms such as shin splints.

Many conditions such as heel pain, Metatarsalgia (pain under the toe joints) and Plantar Fasciitis are a sign that something may be wrong with the biomechanics of the foot.

The Solution
Sometimes the problem does not lie with the foot itself, so skillful analysis of your biomechanics, including foot, lower limb and back assessment is carried out.

Manipulation, adjustment and exercise programmes can help to rectify problems with the back or lower limb.

Core strength training can alter posture, leading to a more efficient gait (walking pattern).

Orthotics and specific exercises can be used to correct problems with the foot itself.

Prescriptive Orthotics
There are many types of orthotics (specially designed shoe inserts) on the market but where pain and dysfunction need to be rectified, the only solution is a custom build orthotic designed specifically for your foot.

We use high quality, state of the art materials which offer the opportunity to control foot posture and modify pressure distribution.

Orthotics can generally be custom built within a few days and you will be instructed as to their correct use to allow the body to adjust over a period of time.

Various type of orthotic are available depending on budget, from professionally tailored “ready to wear” right up to bespoke rightstride® D3D and RS devices, featuring the latest in EVA and  Co-polymer Carbon technology.

D3D Orthotics

D3D Sports/Active

The rightstride® D3D bespoke orthotics are produced in EVA.

This enables us to mix base and top material density creating support and comfort in one superb device.

These versatile devices have been PROVEN to remain effective in the harshest of environments as demonstrated by service men and women all over the world.

Neuropathic diabetic patients who require offloading of pressure also benefit from this unique orthotic with its amazing mix of material density.

RS Orthotics

Rs Marathon runner

The rightstride® RS bespoke orthotics are made in co-polymer carbon.

Ultra durable, with a blend of functional control and dynamic flexibility resulting in the shell flexing under loading while remaining semi rigid under normal load.

A solution to the most demanding fashion shoe is here in the fashion fit orthotic and rightstride® provide us with huge range of different devices from the classic to the summer and winter Sports activities.

RSscan Lab’s advanced foot scanning systems and foot plates give accurate gait analysis, foot pressure measurement that will help in foot pain treatment.

We have over ten years experience working with sports groups and athletes from amateur to Olympic level providing specific event support.

Striding Edge

Our unique location at the edge of the Cumbrian Lake District and only an hour away from the Scottish Highlands, means that we do a great deal of work with climbers and activity organisations in the region.

Currently providing event services for Highpoint and the Olympic Delivery Authority.

Understanding a particular sport and mechanism of injury, is vital to the wellbeing of the athlete and we spend a great deal of time with professionals in many diciplines, learning the skills required and understanding the stresses and strains placed on the body.

Special experience with ballistics and archery professionals has allowed us to assist Olympic athletes to fine tune their technique to get the best from their physique and skills.

Preventative techniques are always at the forefront of our sports work and this is most evident with our involvement in motorsport, working with the driver to counteract the forces of driving at speed or in awkward conditions.

We were present at symposiums for the inception of the HANS restraint system, now employed to limit head and neck injuries in F1 drivers.

We will always work closely with an injured athlete and their coach, ensuring that they can maintain their level of fitness and achieve rehabilitation within the sports specific environment.

If you would like us to provide support for your event, just use our “contact us” button to discuss your requirements.

Find out more about the Cumbrian Lakes and Scottish Highlands

Find out more about The Cumbrian Lake District, with the Lake District National Park

Visit the Scottish Highlands

Highpoint Mountain Guides – offer a range of activities and training for groups www.lakeschallenge.co.uk and specialist services to the media, film and TV industries www.highpointpro.co.uk

Our Carlisle Sportsphysio practice provides care for professional and amateur sports people alike.

We have over ten years experience with many sporting diciplines; Motorsport, rugby, martial arts and climbers to name but a few.  From Olympic level athletes to the weekend amateur.

Regardless of the reason for your visit, you are assured of our high level of professionalism and expertise.

The Sportsphysio practice is situated in the peaceful village of Warwick Bridge just 3 miles outside Carlisle City Centre.

We are easy to find, just off the A69

Warwick Mill Business Village enjoys a superb rural location, away from the congested city and expensive parking,  yet is within easy reach of clients and services throughout Cumbria,  The North East and South West Scotland.

The surgery is housed in one of the original 18th Century “Mill Workers” cottages, providing a comfortable and friendly atmosphere with private treatment rooms.

Gateway to the Cumbrian Lakes

The historic city of Carlisle has a unique location, just one step away from the stunning Cumbrian Lake District. A haven for walkers and climbers alike, as well as those who enjoy watersports and high octane pursuits.

We work closely with many businesses and organisations in the area, often providing dedicated support for specific events.

Just off the M6

We are only 5 minutes from junction 43 of the M6, making us easy to access from Cumbria, Lancashire and Southern Scotland.
The A69 runs right through the village, leading directly to the East.  Newcastle is just over an hour away.

Clinic Directions

From Carlisle and M6 ( Jnct 43)

Head along the A69 towards Newcastle for just about 2.5 miles.

• You will go past the Stony Holme Golf Club on your right.
• You will go over the stone bridge between Warwick upon Eden and Warwick Bridge
• You will go past open playing fields on your right
• You will bare right (stay on A69) at a tight curve in the road at a junction to Little Corby

Around 500m on your right, as the road opens out, is a green sign to Warwick Mill. TURN RIGHT here. ( If you get to the BP garage you have gone too far)

Continue up the lane past the Warwick Bridge Post Office and Co-op and past the first car park sign to your right.

Follow the road to your right between two rows of mill cottages.

TheSportsphysio.com clinic is on your right, 5 doors along. The Car park is just a little further along past the clinic to your left. ie behind the left row of cottages.

From Newcastle direction towards Carlisle.

On arrival in Warwick Bridge travel past the BP garage.  Slow down after about 200m as you approach a set of bollards in the central road reservation.

Turn LEFT just after them. A piece of rubble covered ground, the remains of the George Pub, will be to your left.

Continue up the lane past the Warwick Bridge Post Office and Co-op and past the first car park sign to your right.

Follow the road to your right between two rows of mill cottages.

TheSportsphysio.com clinic is on your right, 5 doors along. The Car park is just a little further along past the clinic to your left. ie behind the left row of cottages.

Address and postcode

TheSportsphysio.com
5 High Buildings
Warwick Bridge
Carlisle
Cumbria
CA4 8RP

Google Map from above the clinic available here >>

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