How to Heal Saddle Sores

If you spend a lot of time in the saddle, chances are you’ve dealt with saddle sores at one point or another. While they’re not usually serious, they can be painful and annoying.

Here are tips to help you heal saddle sores and prevent them from coming back.

1. Clean the Area Thoroughly

The first step in healing saddle sores is to make sure the area is clean. Gently wash the sore with soap and water, then pat dry. You may also want to use an antibacterial ointment or cream.

2. Keep the Area Dry

Once the sore is clean, it’s important to keep the area dry. This means avoiding activities that will make you sweat, such as riding in hot weather or working out. It also means changing out of wet clothes as soon as possible. When you do sweat, be sure to pat the area dry with a clean towel.

3. Apply a Cold Compress

To reduce inflammation and pain, apply a cold compress to the sore for 10-15 minutes at a time. You can use a cold pack or simply wrap ice in a clean cloth.

4. Take Pain Relievers If Needed

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with saddle sores. Just be sure not to take more than the recommended dose on the label.

5. Try a Topical Ointment or Cream

If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t enough, there are several topical ointments and creams that can help ease pain and speed healing, such as lanolin cream or bag balm. These can be found at most drugstores or online. Be sure to read the instructions on the label carefully before using any new product.

6. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Tight clothing can irritate saddle sores, so it’s important to wear loose -fitting, breathable clothing when you’re recovering. This includes avoiding tight, synthetic fabrics such as nylon or Lycra. Instead, opt for natural fibers like cotton or wool.

7. Avoid Sitting for Long Periods of Time

If you have a desk job, try to take frequent breaks to stand up and move around every 20 minutes or so. When you’re sitting, be sure to use a pillow or cushion to support your weight so that your sore isn’t getting pressure from your body weight.

8. Sleep on Your Stomach or Side

Sleeping on your stomach or side will help relieve pressure on your sore while you sleep. If you normally sleep on your back, try propping yourself up with pillows so that your weight isn’t resting directly on your sore.

9. Use a Different Saddle

If you’re a cyclist, try using a different type of saddle until your sore heals completely. A wider saddle may provide more support and padding, which can help prevent further irritation during rides. If you’re experiencing recurrent saddle sores, consider investing in a custom-fit saddle specifically designed for your body type and riding style.

10. Consider Seeing a Doctor If Home Treatments Aren’t Working

After trying all of these home treatments without relief, it may be time to see a doctor They can prescribe stronger medications if needed and rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, such as infection

Conclusion

These tips should help you heal existing saddle sores quickly and prevent them from coming back If home remedies don’t seem to be helping after two weeks, however, it’s important to see a doctor.

They can rule out other potential causes of your symptoms and prescribe stronger medications if needed.