Lower Back Pain - Suggestions????

[spottyd]

I have been working out with Cathe on and off for about 2 years now. About a week and a half ago, I experienced a severe, sharp pain in my lower back while reaching for a cup of coffee (darn that coffee!). It was almost like my whole lower back was pulsating and throbbing in pain. I literally thought I was not going to be able to move. Anyway, I DID move, because I had to go to work, but I had a lot of trouble moving around for the next 5 days or so. I didn't work out, as I didn't want to make it worse. Well, I've tried to start working out again, but thought I should keep it low impact and do NO back work - I've done some stationary biking, walking, and PS biceps, triceps, chest - but my question is this (yes, finally, I'm getting to the question part!!!) - WHAT Cathe workouts would you recommend that are low impact (or no impact)? And, WHEN do you think I can kick it back up to where I WAS (that new Body Blast series is BEYOND wonderful and I MISS IT)!!??
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
Courtney

 

[Aquajock]

The problem with weighing low-impact versus higher impact is that, when you decrease impact, normally range of motion in all joints (including the hip and knee joints as well as the shoulder joint) is increased to keep the intensity up. Increased range of motion at a fast tempo can cause joint problems of their own.

I would suggest continuing your stationary biking and walking for at least another week, and then add in Cathe step routines keeping all movements grounded AND keeping your range of motion carefully monitored, especially motions that involve hip flexion and extension. There's probably no way to precisely determine when you can get back to your previous schedule; just carefully and consistently work through a PAIN-FREE range of motion, and you should work your way back fairly soon.

A-Jock

 

[Gayle]

Hi Courtney,

As one who's suffered from lower back pain issues since high school, I'd strongly recommend seeing a doctor about this, if you haven't already. Depending on what's causing the pain, i.e. pinched nerve, pulled muscle, alignment problem, there may be an optimal way to treat your specific pain and get you back into gear.

Also, I can vouch for A-Jock's comment on low-impact cardio. If I'm having any weakness in my lower back, kick boxing (particularly side kicks) will aggravate it. I'm careful to only do that kind of thing when I'm feeling strong. HTH.

 

[kathryn]

You might also consider going to a chiropractor. They can help immensely with certain types of back pain (and they are often more into exercise than regular doctors are, and can give you suggestions for exercises to do and to avoid).

 

[spottyd]

Thank you everyone for your advice - it is so hard to NOT work out, or to at least not work out at the intensity I was getting used to - but I know if I do not take it easy, I will only hurt myself more.
: (
Again, thanks for the sage advice!!!!
-Courtney

 

[hippahips]

Hi Courtney, do go to a medical professional first to see what's causing your back pain. I personally wouldn't touch Cathe's workouts if I had any pain in my back as her workouts are tough. I have scoliosis and osteoarthritis in my spine and lately the same kink that used to bother me has been trying to make a comeback. I've been doing yoga for my back every other day and it has been helping tremendously.

Pinky