Hi Barry,
That sounds great. Very happy that biking worked out that great with you. For me, my problems deteriorated after my first surgery which I did in the late 80's and things simply went downhill from then on, with two more surgeries. I live in the DC metropolitan, and there are thousands of cyclists around, but I don't know if I can get myself to bike in the streets. There is a trail very close by, which I can use, but of course there are a whole bunch of joggers and fast bikers. Maybe I should just chill and give it a shot! provided I get to choose the bike anyway.
Choices choices choices!
Originally Posted by
flan48
Hi Deego,
I had spine surgery in 2010 (laminectomy and fusion at L4/5). Within 6 or 8 weeks I was able to walk at a reasonable pace and from week 3 post-surgery my doc encouraged me to get back to working out with weights, albeit with much less weight than before.
Fast forward to this past year, and while I was happy overall, I noticed that I'd often get pains radiating down the outside of my legs, obviously originating in my often sore SI joints. I felt that this is OK as with the level above being fused, there is now more stress on the level below, and above, the fusion and this would involve the SI joints (confirmed by the surgeon).
Back in late June I started cycling again by purchasing a used "comfort hybrid". From the first 25 minute ride I felt terrific and pain free at night. I quickly graduated to 10-12 mile rides and have virtually no SI joint problems nor leg pains at night.
Just recently I sold my comfort hybrid on Craigslist and bought a new Trek FX 7.4. I still feel great and love the bike. One is still in an upright position (good!) but not 90 degrees upright (bad!). I highly recommend the sport in general and a performance/fitness hybrid specifically.
Of course, you should get an OK of the idea with your doctor.
Good luck and best regards.