MRI.. I need support

[KnottedYet]

Yup, take it easy until after the MRI results!

NO MORE SIT UPS OR CRUNCHES!!!

And have your PT check your positioning and posture on the bike before you do more "longer and harder" riding.

[smilingcat]

definitly get your back checked out with a doctor.

PT, physical therapist/physical tor***** with "let me help you" can be discouraging at times but they really do help. So be diligent about going to them if you decide to do so.

Other big thing to is to take either Pilates, Gyrokinesis www.gyrotonic.com/gyrokinesis.htm or even do Tai Chi. All three work on what they call core strength. I prefer gyro and tai chi. And both has helped me imensely with my back, my posture, and my sense of balance. Most importantly, my back hasn't gone out in years. hurray

Tai Chi is martial arts. It's not just for old people its for the young as well. It focuses on the whole body. Tai Chi can be many things from martial art for fighting to more meditative exercise where you learn to listen to your body, how chi flows through your body, and how your body moves in effortless smooth motion. It also teaches you how to breath properly.

I know people don't think about Pilates, Gyro or Tai Chi for back exercises. But I would highly encourage you to think about it and give it a try. It helped me tremendously!!

take care of your back,
Shawn

[Grog]

Good luck Luna on the MRI, I hope they find what's wrong...

I don't mean to break anyone's fun, but am I the only one doubting that Townies and cruiser-style bikes are appropriate for riding longer distances and making efforts? They are great bikes, no doubt, for riding besides the beach at a relaxed pace and even for running errands. But something in me tells me that they're not bikes you're supposed to work hard on for prolonged periods of time. They are certainly not designed with that purpose in mind.

I don't pretend that is the cause of your pain - others have given much better advice than what I could come up with - but I have wondered about this ever since you started posting about having some back problems...

Hopefully others can provide evidence that I'm wrong.

[Wahine]

Knott has given you very good advice!!

I agree with her 100%. As for Tai Chi etc. I would not start any new activity until after the MRI. But generally speaking, the type of exercises Smilingcat suggested are helpful for back rehab.

Getting properly fitted for your bike is important when you get the OK from your PT or Doc. I also agree with Grog, although hybrids and Townies are more upright, they are not always the answer. In fact research has shown that the cycling position that puts the least amount of strain on the lumbar discs is the aero position. Go Figure.

[Bikingmomof3]

Keep us posted. I ask my doctor for a vaalium before MRIs. Works every time.

[ace]

I don't know if open MRIs are widespread, but here in No. Cal a lot of the MRIs are open, more like a big clam shell or a pair of big castanets, so good for claustrophobics and big people (I think if you're over 250 lbs, you have to do an open MRI).

[mountainchick]

I had severe back problems in college...2 herniated disks that caused me to be immobile for a few days, and even then when I went to the doc I had to be almost carried. So I feel your pain!

I went to PT and was put on medication. For me, PT worked wonders and I haven't had any problems since.

Good luck, I hope everything turns out ok! Best wishes!