For the best ride, consult a professional bike fitter

DEAR DR. ROACH >> Iam writing to you about an orthopedic problem for which I hope you can suggest a treatment. Apparently, not having my bike saddle high enough has caused pain in the right side of my right knee. Cycling is now my primary source of exercise, as I am no longer a runner.

The pain occurs when I walk and to some extent when I cycle, but primarily when I walk. I have noticed this within the past few months. Initially, I thought that it was an indication of arthritis. However, I looked up information on how to know if your bike saddle is the correct height, and it addressed pain that can develop in the knee if the saddle is too low.

What can I do to mediate the pain? Would a knee brace help? ANSWER >> Cycling is a great form of exercise, and it’s generally easier on the joints than running. However, for people who cycle a lot, particularly those who push themselves hard, an ill-fitting bike can cause knee and back pain. Since yours has been going on for months, the problem is likely to persist for a while, even if you correct the situation on the bike. Some rest may be called for.

My best advice is to get a professional bike fitter. While you may be lucky enough that your bike shop offers this service, serious cyclists often invest in a thorough fitting of all the adjustments on a bike. The bike will be more comfortable, you’ll have better performance, and you’ll develop less pain.

A sports medicine doctor or physiatrist (they may be the same person) can also help evaluate you for any muscle, joint or tendon issues predisposing you to develop pain.

DEAR DR ROACH >> I am taking the blood pressure medications Hyzaar in the morning and atenolol before bedtime. My diastolic numbers are very well under control, but my systolic numbers have been staying in the range of 130-145. What could it mean?

Keith Roach