If you have multiple saddle sores in the same area, they may have the appearance of a rash, similar to razor burn.
Wrap the ice pack in a soft towel or washcloth so that it doesn’t directly touch your skin. Apply the ice pack off-and-on for 1 to 5 minutes at a time, but don’t leave it on for more than 20 minutes at a time. You can do this as often as every 2 hours while you’re awake during the first 24 to 48 hours after you get the saddle sore.
If you’re training for a race and can’t afford to take a day or two off, at least ride a different bike with a different saddle for a couple of days. That will change the pressure points so you’re not rubbing directly against the saddle sore.
Use a mild, fragrance-free soap or shower gel to avoid further irritation to your skin.
Give the gel a minute or two to dry before you put any clothing on over the spot. If you wash the area, you may want to reapply the gel.
If your underwear chafes against your saddle sore, you might want to go without for a day or two. Looser-fitting boxer shorts are also an option. Sleeping in the nude can also help saddle sores heal faster because your crotch will stay dry and not rub against any clothing. [8] X Research source
Follow the instructions on the bottle and don’t take over-the-counter medications regularly for more than a day or two. If you still feel as though you need the medication after 2 or 3 days, you might want to have a doctor take a look at your saddle sores.
Serious pain Pus oozing out of the sore Fever and chills
Your regular doctor can examine your saddle sores and tell you if they’re infected. If you suspect an infection, or if you have broken skin, it’s typically better to see a doctor as soon as possible rather than take a “wait and see” approach.
If you stop taking antibiotics before you’ve finished the full round, it’s likely the infection will return. The returned infection might be more severe or harder to treat as a result.
Keep a log of when you get saddle sores, their approximate location, and how long it takes for them to heal. This log can help the dermatologist get to the root of the problem more quickly.
Choose an ergonomic saddle that minimizes contact with your groin. Not only will this protect you against saddle sore, it can also prevent impotence in male riders and sensitivity in female riders, which can result from the saddle pressing on the nerves in your groin. If you’re a more aggressive sprint rider, look for a saddle that relieves pressure toward the front. Endurance riders who favor long rides, on the other hand, will want more padding in the rear. Your saddle should also be the appropriate width for your anatomy. Bike shops typically have tools to measure and find the best width for you. However, it can take a little bit of trial and error to get it right. When you’re breaking in a new saddle, start with shorter rides and gradually increase the distance to avoid getting saddle sores while you adjust to the new saddle. [15] X Research source
Try different brands to see which ones are the most comfortable. Once you find a brand you like, it’s a good idea to get 2 or 3 pairs so you always have a backup.
Take your after-ride shower immediately after you finish your ride. Walking around in sweaty shorts is a good way to get saddle sores, even if the ride itself is not to blame.
Standing around in your shorts after a ride allows bacteria to remain in contact with your skin, which can cause saddle sores or make any sores you already have worse.
If you’re not sure which cream would be best to you, talk to other cyclists or someone who works at your favorite bike shop. They’ll likely have a recommendation. You might also want to try several different creams so you can decide which one you like the best.
You can use natural acceleration points, such as short hills, to get your stretching in. Standing when you see rough pavement also keeps the saddle from putting undue pressure on your crotch.
