It all started the day after my first non-commute road ride in about a month. I have a fairly aggressive geometry on my road bike, but it's never caused me more than a little stress in my upper glutes / lower back. Perhaps it was the cause? Regardless, there was no way I could get back on the bike with the amount of pain I was experiencing. I hobbled through the week, grimacing throughout the Christmas holiday.
On Sunday, I was feeling better. I saddled up again, and went for a 40 mile ride. I took it easy, but could feel every pebble on the road. I rode up tiny little Moss Hill, which is pronounced enough that a town is named for it. Whether on a flat or on a hill, my back was tight. I couldn't get in the drops for more than about a minute. Once home, my back was hurting again and the periodic spasms were back.
Long Straight with Moss Hill in the Distance
And then suddenly, about an hour before bed, something changed. I noticed I wasn't in pain. A little sore, a little stiff, and a bit twingy, but not really in pain. And this morning, it felt even better. So was the ride the cause? The solution? Or just your typical back pain mystery? I think I'm going to find a chiropractor in case I need urgent services in the future.
3 comments:
No surprise in my response to your post, I imagine..STRETCH! Your back muscles are connected from the back of the neck to the bottom of the feet. Cycling can cause these muscles to constrict, throwing off your entire musculature. Don't worry, this is not necessarily a chronic condition. I had severe back spasms in my 40's(I am 60 now). I found the best thing to be a hot shower! I use the hottest water I could stand, running down my back, and touch my toes, stretching gently until my muscles stretch to the point where I can put my palms flat on the ground with my knees locked. The shower part isn't necessary, but it's nice anyway. Good luck and keep the rubber side down!
Back pain is really scary. I'm glad it's feeling better. Hopefully, it will stay away. By the way, happy new year.
Nice post & nice blog. I love both.
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