Back Issues and Lifting

dkoroschetz

So, I hurt my back at the gym 2 1/2 weeks ago, I was doing ball slams with a 20 lb medicine ball (I've done these 100s of times in the last 6 mos). When I came up from the second slam on my second set, pain shot thru my lower back - I dropped to the floor in pain, almost in tears.

I ended up at a Chiropractor 3 days later because at this point I was crooked, couldn't stand up straight and in tons of pain. We've done massages and adjustments for the last two weeks. Massage guy says my hamstrings were like bricks the first day he massaged and the second day they were much better. Wondering if this is from not stretching enough?

My X-rays showed a mild scoliosis, curving in two places. Chiro is suggesting 12 mos of visits with adjustments, exercises and massages....only for $3,800! I saw an Ortho today for a second opinion. He says not to worry about treating it and that he would not spend the time or money seeing a Chiro for a year. He gave me pamphlet of back exercises, told me to work on those.

I asked about working out, explaining that I've been lifting and doing boot camp style work outs. Doc said I can do flys and bench press all day long, but I should NOT be doing anything like ball slams, flipping tires, dead lifts, etc that will strain my back - or most of the floor exercises that I've been doing. I DO NOT want to go backwards with this, I've worked hard to get where I am today. Most of the cardio in boot camp is jumping on boxes, mountain climbers, etc.

I still have weight to lose but I mainly would like to tone more than anything. Not sure how to proceed from here....focus on cardio and light lifting?

wellbert

I deadlift with a lower back issue because I'm an idiot. If I'm careful with form, my back actually feels better the next day for doing it.
That said. Again, I'm an idiot. Listen to your doctor. Bench pressing always hurts my back because of the arch used in the bench.

The thing that really made a difference for me is I stopped any activity that invovled bending AND twisting at the same time.

If you are just looking for aesthetics, go with lighter weight, whatever lets you get in around 8-10 reps.

dkoroschetz

I deadlift with a lower back issue because I'm an idiot. If I'm careful with form, my back actually feels better the next day for doing it.
That said. Again, I'm an idiot. Listen to your doctor. Bench pressing always hurts my back because of the arch used in the bench.

The thing that really made a difference for me is I stopped any activity that invovled bending AND twisting at the same time.

If you are just looking for aesthetics, go with lighter weight, whatever lets you get in around 8-10 reps.

Actually, I was doing dead lifts the day I hurt myself too. I felt my back tensing up every time I was done with a set, but I just moved on to the kettlebell swings, and ball throws before I made it to the medicine ball that killed me!

Thanks for the input! I guess I have to listen and keep on keepin on

kimothy38

I sympathise. After all that effort it seems a shame to let it slide. Have a look at Feldenkrais - it's supposed to be good for back pain. Personally I'd do what the experts tell you for a few months then slowly reintroduce exercises.

dkoroschetz

I sympathise. After all that effort it seems a shame to let it slide. Have a look at Feldenkrais - it's supposed to be good for back pain. Personally I'd do what the experts tell you for a few months then slowly reintroduce exercises.

Never heard of this, I will look into it. Thanks!

GhostPack

Crossfit?

I have back issues that have crippled me for days and even weeks. I do squats and deads correctly now and my back is GREAT!!!
Having back issues you need to know your limits and use PROPER form. Not a lot of trainers focus on proper form and it's a shame.