My first post - looking for back pain advice

[solobiker]

I had the same problem about 10years ago after I was doing a lot of riding. It got so bad that I could not sit for more then 10 min without beign in significant pain. I went to the Dr. he put me on muscle relxants and gave me pain medication which did absolutely nothing. I had a one of my co-workers... a PT ( I am an OT)help me a bit. What I figured out was that my hamstrings were and still are very tight which pulls on the lower back and my core strenghth was very weak. I focused on a lot of stretching, did yoga and back exercises which helped. If I don't stay on top of it, it flairs up again. Good luck. Back pain is no fun

[prettycitygirl]

Thank you all so much for your replies.

I have been taking it easy and have been doing ALOT of stretching and have also been spinning with my handlebars raised. I also ice thoughout the day and take an inti-inflammatory. I am feeling some relief, I am happy to report.

I know I have some other issues that are contributing to my back pain, but I have not yet be able to get those issues nailed down.

I have HORRIBLE right hip issues. About 10-months ago I suffered through a hip stress fracture and then horrible brusistis which re-occurs more often then it should. Now (along with my back pain) I think I've pulled a groin muscle or possible it's my hamstring??? Shesh...Again, docs want to do an MRI for a consclusive answer. I can't have MRI 2x-year! Just too dang expensive. For me, I think prevention is the answer.

My co-workers call me Mrs. Glass since it's like I'm always injured. I am young, active and do all the stretches in the world and yet I am always in pain. I guess one of the these days I'll figure it all out. I hope.

Anyway, thank you all for your advice and support! You're a great group!

[Miranda]

Welcome to TE! So sorry to hear about your pain issues! Oh, I totally get it though, been there in so many areas of what you are posting...

OK, do make sure you are happy with your PT. If you don't like the first one you see, request another--better yet if a sports specific one. A great PT can teach you much. Here is my spin on your situation... I woud think part of your issue is body mechanics compensating to the old injury you mention. I have some of the same (plus a book report of other junk I'll skip for now)...

What the PT can tell you is if your body has learned to over-compensate from the old injury. Without us even realizing it, this can happen. Affects SO much.

I modify my rides all the time. If it hurts, stop... and do whatever does not!

Maybe some cross training in the pool could help tide you over under the spin issues get worked out? If you have one available. My PTs were always big on the pool. You don't even have to be a lap swimmer... just walking in the water is working it my PT told me.

I know what you mean about loving Spinning. I'm a certified Spinning instructor through MDA, besides road cycling and mtb. Pedaling is my passion lol. Well, and I'm learning to love the pool per my PT's advice .

I hope you find some resolve soon!

[grey]

Back pain is indeed, the worst. I have been knocked out of the season this year because I had a back muscle go into spasm, it spasmed for so long that it caused MORE problems. I'm happy to report I am able to take short 6-mile rides now.

Stretching is BIG. I am learning it is the most important thing for me to do. Sitting is bad. I'm looking to start pilates (my husband, a tennis player, is thinking he wants to join too) to see if this helps me as well.

I've also ramped up my core strength.

This may sound odd, but there is some science behind it: For inflammation, take a few capsules filled with Turmeric powder (yes, the spice). You'll feel a difference within 30 minutes. It has worked so well with me we started giving it to our older dog, who has hip problems. She's back to running around and enjoying life a little more.

Good luck, I hope you feel better soon. Maybe just rest it for a while - take a week off from spin class, focus on more stretches, and see if it improves.

[e.e.cummings]

Double-ditto for pilates - I have had back problems on and off for years, and I find developing a strong core is what helps the most.

[daisylubob]

OK. I have been dealing w/ low back pain ALL race season, starting in mid-April. It has really affected both my road and mtb riding negatively,as the pain was just relentless. I was just referred to a guy who does ART, Active Release Technique.
http://www.activerelease.com/what_patients.asp

I have had 3 sessions so far. They are PAINFUL but hopefully effective. My last race is 11/7, so I will find out then. He thinks my LBP stems from being tight in the front, tight hip flexors, abs, psoas, quads. I mainly bike which keeps me forward, and then I sit in front of a computer at work all day, which also is a forward posture. Stretch your front out as much as you can, hopefull you can get some relief.