Boils on your backside are not fun.
I should know, my husband brewed up a monster that caused agony for us all one summer.
If you’ve spent a long time in a saddle or even a bike during the hotter months, then you probably know what I’m talking about.
It got so bad he couldn’t sit down. The doctor couldn’t lance it because it was unfortunately too deep.
It’s not the most manly of ailments, bending your husband over to give him a hot poultice and a turmeric tonic!
Oh! If only he’d worn pantyhose under his jeans, this may never have happened!
Seriously, boils are painful problems that can stop us riding momentarily. Why do people get them?
When it’s hot and we sweat, our pores and hair follicles can get clogged with sweat and dirt when they are being constantly rubbed by something like a saddle or bike seat.
The best way to treat a boil is to put a hot soak, hot pack or hot compress on the boil which can bring some comfort and improve blood circulation to fight off the infection.
One of the most effective and least known treatments is turmeric. Turmeric can help dissolve and heal boils in as little as three days. It has anti-inflammatory and blood purifying effects on the body. Take one teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm water three times a day or buy turmeric capsules. You can also make a paste with the turmeric powder and place it directly on the boil and cover it with gauze.
Don’t try to pop it as you may push it further in. Wait until it forms a head and have a doctor lance it (you don’t want to cause further infection).
And of course to prevent them forming – besides good hygiene, pantyhose can help. Cut off the legs and wear them under your jeans to eliminate rubbing against the saddle. Bike pants also work though they may be a little hotter. You never know, you might end up enjoying it!
Butt Cream anyone?
Have you suffered this problem and how did you treat it? What are your proven home remedies? How do you prevent them? Have you ever done the pantyhose trick? Is there a magic saddle sore butt cream you’ve used? Post your comments below.
