The value of stretching after riding [View all]

I admit I am guilty of neglecting stretching. I know certain muscles get shortened by cycling such as the hamstrings, but I just didn't do it as I was so happy that I was riding again.

Today is Friday and the trouble started Sunday afternoon. I had done a short and fast ride early, showered, drove to church (yes I believe in God) and got home about noon. I was taking care of some necessary chores outside in the 100+ degree heat when my right leg collapsed at the knee joint. I didn't fall but it hurt like Hell. There has been no pain in my legs while riding except the normal. I put on an elastic knee brace but that didn't help much. Monday I did not ride and did a little research on the web about this knee collapse thing.

The medical sites were really unhelpful. They had all kinds of dire diagnoses and treatments-surgical, drugs and physical therapy. I did another search adding cycling to knee collapse and got some good advice. This is a common symptom of short hamstrings. DUH! I don't quite understand the mechanics as it involves the kneecap but I knew I should've been doing hamstring stretches all along, and it couldn't hurt.

Tuesday I carefully got on the bike and road a short easy ride with no hills. Then with my legs warmed up I did the stretches. Not fun, but I could tell they were really tight. I've been doing this each day since. The knee collapse is nearly gone and when it happens it is not bad. Thursday It happened twice and did not cause very much discomfort. Monday and Tuesday I was using a cane to prevent falling.

Any other stretches you would suggest. I do Achilles tendons,groin, neck rolls and shoulder stretches. I'm not sure how to do quads without damaging my iffie knees. Thanks in advance.