Effect of graded bicycle seat pressure on perineal compression: a magnetic resonance imaging analysis.
OBJECTIVE
To identify a seat pressure threshold that corresponds to significant compression of the perineum.


METHODS
Quasiexperimental crossover.


METHODS
Hospital radiology department.


METHODS
Convenience sample of six male recreational cyclists.


METHODS
Compression of the corpus spongiosum and corpora cavernosa of the perineum without bicycle seat pressure (0%) and at 10%, 40% and 80% of the mean bicycling pressure was assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. Seat pressure was applied using a custom loading device.


METHODS
Measure Diameter measurements of the cavernous spaces at the point of peak compression.


RESULTS
The mean diameter values for the corpus spongiosum in the unloaded and 10% of load conditions were 105% and 172% greater than the 40% and 80% loaded conditions, respectively (p=0.002-0.004). The corpora cavernosa values displayed a similar trend.


CONCLUSIONS
Substantial compression of the perineal cavernous spaces may occur with total seat pressure values of less than 40% of typical seat loads.
Bressel
Eadric
E
Biomechanics Laboratory, HPER Department, Utah State University, 7000 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA. eadric.bressel@usu.edu
Parker
Dan
D
D000328:Adult; D001642:Bicycling; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D010502:Perineum / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D011312:Pressure; D013314:Stress, Mechanical