Originally Posted by
Lean back
I would consult a neurosurgeon before making any decisions. I road a LWB because I always had a bad back. After rupturing a disc L4 I had to have surgery. When I asked the surgeon about the seating position, he said it was actually a worse than a standard bike. I was shocked. He said it is better to be bent over forward than backward. Puts less pressure on the lower back. Long story short. Consult a doctor. I road a bent for 5 years and who knows what kind of damage I had been doing.
Before I would decide, I would get more than one Drs. opinion. Preferably a Dr. that bikes now and then, and has ridden a recumbent. I had L4 fixed in 1994, If it weren't for my recumbent, I wouldn't be riding at all, at least not regularly. A DF beats up your neck and shoulders, and curves your back uncomfortably (at least for me) if you are in a decent aerodynamic position, not so with a properly adjusted 'bent. For sure, you need the correct fit of seat to your back. It would do anyone well to explore all the options, and opinions before deciding. If I am doing damage, my body certainly doesn't tell me about it, except for weary legs at the end of a long ride.
-fab