Lower back muscle spasm

ncpam262

I have an issue with my lower back (skiing injury) and PT says I can't ride my bike because the position aggrates it. Im training for  a half in June and need advice on what to do to keep up my training. 

kendallrw3

Continue PT, see your local PM&R doctor (for a diagnosis) and try the bike with almost no resistance. If it doesn't bother you to ride, or even run for that matter then is okay to do. If the pain goes to the leg, then stop and see a physician.

coop6

Are you able to ride sitting up without pain? Last year I was able to train through a low back injury as long as I stayed out of aero position and on a trainer. It depends on what your problem is though, because if it's a herniated disc I think the treatment might be different.
Pool running was boring, but helpful. There is info on that in the wiki.

Paula Nystrom

I have Spondylolisthesis do to an injury in my younger days. I do a lot of core work (P90X ab ripper etc) I take pilates classes and have switched to running on Newton shoes, this has helped immensely. I am now able to limit my pain enough that I think completing a full IM race this year is a possiblity. Stretching you back before and after your workout is critical as well as using a foam roller to keep your IT band loose. On the bike I get up out of the saddle and stretch periodically, and when starting after a stop light I stand instead of starting in the saddle, reduces stress on the back. I also have an inversion table in the garage. Whatever it takes! I have been getting regular adjustments from a Chirpractor for years and he has kept me in the game. If you are having back spasms you most likely have a misalignment with your spine.

Best of luck to core strength is key!

Carrie Chavez

Do you have a diagnosis? What is the actual mechanism of injury and when? Did you fall and land on your butt and now have back pain?