Back protection...What do you use?

**KTM265** · 10-01-2006, 08:26 PM

I guess this is a sign I'm getting older but tonight I threw my back out for the first time...classic picking up something too heavy (loading Little KTM's quad into my truck)...felt a pop in my lower back followed by the sharp pain...etc...I still took him riding and did my test on the oil cooler but when we stopped, the pain got really bad, even painful to walk...sitting up is the only position that seems to be half way comfortable...

At anyrate...I have a week to heal up before my next ride. What sort of back belts are you guys wearing if any? I use to wear a kidney belt when MX racing but found it too hot to wear if the temps got above 70 like they did today...

aussieV · 10-01-2006, 09:21 PM

try one of them mesh shirts with the spine protector in them. I havent used them, but my mate said they feel ok.

or strap a lump of 4x2 to yerself <========= DIY body armour

Mike

Enigma · 10-01-2006, 09:32 PM

Quote:

try one of them mesh shirts with the spine protector in them. I havent used them, but my mate said they feel ok.

or strap a lump of 4x2 to yerself <========= DIY body armour

Mike
[/b]

I use a Thor kidney type belt . It has a hard plastic spine cover that is perforated so it breathes a bit better. It still gets warm over about 65 degrees though.

**krewzlo** · 10-02-2006, 05:01 AM

Ya better get that back checked out by a Dr. I frequently throw mine out and the only way I can better is to have it manipulated back into place. Don't think of it as getting old, mine started when I was 19.

Hope you feel better

someone · 10-02-2006, 08:50 AM

back protection = certain types of chest protectors, six-six-one, etc. I was thinking you meant impact kind of protection.

Sounds like you are talking about back support? Might check with the Costco night stockers. Har-har.

Sorry to hear about your back.

Time for a bigger or different design trailer. Or getting a trailer in the first place? No more lifting quads into the truck. Or ramps even cheaper.

ckill · 10-02-2006, 08:55 AM

Yeah it sounds like you need a chiropractor and then work out to build the muscles up again....that or pain pills. I have been on a quest for good back protection for riding there is not a whole lot out there..surprisingly. I have found a few that look pretty good. I use a kidney belt for long rides it does good but don't know about lifting.

**KTM265** · 10-02-2006, 09:07 AM

Yes, back support would be a better way of putting it. My boss at works thinks I did more then strain it since I'm feeling pain in my legs...if it continues I'll probably go to the saw bones and get it checked.

I do have a trailer so there is very little lifting but my neighbor came this time so we had his son's Suz 400 and my V on the trailer...instead of unhooking the trailer and using ramps we just lifted the DS 50 into the back of the truck...stupid thing to do. Probably wasn't the best idea either to ride afterwards...(I did this loading up to go) but I had a promise to Little KTM to take him riding if he was good at my sister's wedding. I didn't ride hard or long...just long enough to set up a section for Little KTM to ride on his own while I watched...

NovaKaw650 · 10-02-2006, 11:22 AM

Quote:

Yes, back support would be a better way of putting it. My boss at works thinks I did more then strain it since I'm feeling pain in my legs...if it continues I'll probably go to the saw bones and get it checked.[/b]

You have pulled a muscle in your lower back; the inflammation is spreading to the sciatic nerves going to your legs. You probably have a swelled disc interfering with the nerves in the lumbar region as well, that's adding to the effect.
Start taking something for the inflammation, such as Ibuprofen (Advil). Go to the doctor if it doesn't get better soon; he might prescribe Celebrex for the inflammation. Once the inflammation goes down, some people have good results with a chiropractor.

**KTM265** · 10-02-2006, 12:39 PM

I have never had much luck with the chiro...My plan is to give it a few days of rest, taking some ibuprophen...heat and ice packs and keep myself moving. I'm getting through work with a few simple modifications to my desk and a very understanding boss...right now I have 3 of my 5 employees either in the hospital or having serious health issues and now I'm down with my back...not a good way to start the week.

gottago2stroke · 10-02-2006, 04:19 PM

If you find a good chiro they should be able to help you out a good deal... back when I worked at the machine shop I pulled my back out twice, 2nd time went to a good chiro suggested by my mother (whos an RN) and it did me a world of good.

Something I don't suggest is getting on strong pain meds. Some Doctors carelessly prescribe strong meds, and they will do you a world of hurt. Take it from me, I've struggled with an OxyContin addiction for years now... and it all started when I pulled my back out. I started taking them so I could work without issues, and ride without issues. They were excellent for riding, allthough stupid, nothing hurt me, and I feared nothing. Ultimately they caused me to lose multiple jobs and lose interest in riding for a period of time, that thankfully I have back now. Even without backpain you need them, they are highly addictive and are not much differant than heroin. I'm sure alot of people will think less of me for saying all this, but I'd hate to see anybody go through what I've been through, just to try and feel better. So take care of your back with natural ways, BEND AT THE KNEES! Stick to OTC meds for pain. Good luck!