Cycling trips are among the favorite activities for many families, but when transporting children on the back of the bike, some precautions are essential so that a moment of leisure does not turn into a serious problem. This is because foot injuries caused by rear wheel spokes are not that rare, explains the president of the Brazilian Association of Ankle and Foot Medicine and Surgery – ABTPé Alexandre Leme Godoy dos Santos.
Injuries can range from abrasions to more serious injuries with exposure of deep tissues, fractures and amputations.
“An important recommendation, even for those who are also cycling, is to never wear flip-flops when cycling, as they can get caught in the wheel rim and the unprotected foot can hurt much more than if the person were wearing closed shoes”, explains the doctor. “The child must be transported in child seats with lower limb protection and a belt to ensure that they do not put their feet on the wheel and do not fall. If the child is older and no longer fits in the car seat, it is necessary to install a rim and strap protector, and the use of a helmet is essential for everyone involved in the ride”, he adds.
Types of car seats
Front seats, which generally support children weighing up to 15kg, are recommended for children from 9 months onwards, when they can keep their spine and neck steady.
Rear seats, which are fixed to luggage racks or the bicycle frame, are recommended for older children, who weigh between 15 kg and 22 kg, but some more robust ones, with a seat and support for the back and feet, can support children up to 35 kg. “Cycling with children is, without a doubt, a very pleasant activity, but it is very important that everyone’s safety comes first”, warns the expert.
