Riding with back problems

Triathlon Forum
1

Hi gang!

I did a 60-mile ride today and afterwards felt a little pain in my lower back after I finished and got off the bike. I have a degenerated disk (L5 I think) but I rarely have trouble with it.

I have been weight training for months and I think some of my lower body exercises (i.e. leg press) may have aggravated it. I’ve cut back on those exercises but was wondering if the bike could also be a factor.

However, I’m riding a Softride Rocketwing and I don’t feel any pain while riding - only when I get off the bike. My assumption is that a beam bike will not make it worse.

Anyone else riding with back problems? Any suggestions on how to deal with it? I’ll be going to the doctor soon. I saw him last year and all he could say was to lose weight. Well I dropped a 120lbs and I’m currently at 210lbs. However, I plan on getting down to 170-180lbs but don’t know if that alone will take care of the problem.

2

same boat here- herniated L5_S1. i do lots of core stuff and lay off the weight machines. stretch a lot, especialy piriformis and hip flexors so that i can ride in a hip neutral position. my tri bike is more comfortable than my road bike lately.

I have just ( months after latest injury) started running on treadmill and gold course - like 30 mins at 12m/ pace. taking it VERY easy and avoiding anything that might aggravate my back.