Hello, Is was whilst in Google analytics (yes, boring..!) that I noted our company name Dan Medica South Ltd had been bantered around in your forum so I decided to take some time out and find out what was said, what type of questions were asked and what type of answers were forthcoming. Having read all the posts I wanted to set out a few facts to help suffers purchase the right products for the right reasons......
Following 30 years of advising the medical industry on pressure sore prevention we started looking at helping the biking fraternity with the common problem of NUMB BUM. This we did and some 5 years on we now sell a full range of different gel pads (for external and internal use), we have developed an air cushion similar to AirHawk (but selling at only £59) and have just invested in the latest technology in seat protection for dual seat scooters. Our success has prompted many small companies to jump on the bandwagon and develop thinner gels/cheaper covers/odd shapes some of which give us a bad name. When choosing something for NUMB BUM you need to find something suitable for your body, not the bike as it’s not the bike in pain. By following the bullet points below I hope it will help stop a painful journey and help the rider to make an informed purchase :
1) Pressure build up comes from your Ischial tuberosities (your two bones in your bottom) so it is that you must look after first and foremost. Gels less than 18mm thick will result in those bottom bones working through the gel and hitting the seat that caused the problem in the beginning.
2) Secondary pressure can be experienced around the groin area as restriction of blood flow or pinching of the nerves can cause tingling of the legs and a throbbing pain around the hips. If the rider suffers from this secondary pain then it is recommended that the chosen gel pad is larger which will slightly spill over the sides of the seat cushioning the tops of the legs/groin area thus allowing greater blood flow (waiting for the onslaught of comments there!)
3) Pressure relief comes in three stages....
a) low risk - foam. For people with maximum movement & minimum pain (e.g OAP's watching too much telly)
b) medium risk - gel. For people in need of pressure relief and suffers pain over a short period of time
c) high risk - Air. The crème del la crème of pressure relief suitable for back sufferers and for long distance travelling. This product needs adjustment and is not as hardwearing as gel.
I hope this information helps all members to make an informed choice and thus a pain free, safe ride.
Regards, Lynne