From: robishaw@orion.lrmsc.loral.com (Gary Robishaw x5960)
Subject: Upper Back Pain - Update I
Organization: Loral Rolm Mil-Spec Computers
Date: Wed, 22 Jul 1992 21:48:29 GMT

Thanks to all who responded to my original posting. The general consensus was
that I should seek medical help, preferably from a Chiropractor. I have decided
to go the traditional route for now for insurance purposes. My insurance does
not cover chiropractic. If my current program doesn't work out, I'll go to
the chiropractor on my own nickel.

I should also point out that I have taken an assertive role in my diagnosis
and treatment. My Doctor, a GP, was most co-operative and listened to me when
I told her my wishes regarding treatment, and my desire to get back on the bike
as soon as possible.

Here then is a summary:

Cause -
  The 200k route of the 'Tour de Garlique'. My first century in twenty years.
  I commute 20 miles round trip daily with twenty mile lunch rides (some
  climbing) twice weekly. Fifty to sixty mile trips on weekends. Usually
  150 - 200 miles per week.

Symptoms -
  Sharp pain to left side of seventh vertebrae (that little knob we all have
  at the base of out necks). Not much trouble during the century. I took the
  day off the bike Monday, and commuted with my lunch time ride on Tuesday.
  That mostly felt OK, but the sharp pain became more intense. During my
  Wednesday commute, I was almost knocked off my bike by what felt like a
  kniiting needle being driven into my spine. Made to work, but caught a ride
  home that evening.

Self Treatment -
  I've experienced this pain before, but it was much milder and left in a
  few hours. Therefore I chose to treat myself with Advil and ice. The pain
  was reduced in intensity, but by Monday it was still with me. Time to see a
  Doctor.

Diagnosis-
  My regular MD was on vacation, so I was seen by one of his associates. After
  my description of my symptoms and cycling habits, and her examination, she
  diagnosed a muscle spasm pinching a nerve against my spine. She prescribed
  a muscle relaxant. After listening to my desires to get back on the bike as
  soon as possible, she arranged for a consultation with a physical therapist
  who specializes in sports injurys. We also agreed that prevention of a
  recurrence was a desirable outcome and that giving up the bike was NOT an
  option.

Treatment-
  My therapist used to ride criteriums until he crashed and broke his arm. He
  still rides 50 - 75 miles per week with his 60 year old father, so I feel
  confident that he understands cycling related problems. He also says he's
  treated these symptoms before. He examined me and agreed with my Dr's
  diagnosis. He first applied moist heat to my upper back and shoulders for
  15 minutes to relax the muscles. Heaven. Then ultra-sound/electro-therapy
  for 10 minutes to fatigue the muscles and cause further relaxation. Then a
  massage of the affected area. Everythings cool. He then showed me some
  stretching and isometric exercises. I'm doing them religously. He prescribed
  ice for pain. Makes sense.

Prognosis -
  Five more PT treatments (more heat I hope) and re-evaluation. I might be able
  to get back on the bike for a short ride Friday. The therapist is looking
  into exercises I can do while riding to prevent another occurrence. I'm
  going to try to talk him into a short ride to evaluate my riding position.

Hell of a summary, eh?

I'll post again in a week or so after we've gotten things sorted out a bit.
In the meantime, I'm on the stairmaster to try to maintain my base.
-- 
Gary Robishaw          "He has a constitutional right to be not guilty."
robishaw@uranus.lrmsc.loral.com       Steven Barrucci after John Gotti's
408/432-5960                          sentencing.
Usnail -- 3151 Zanker Rd. San Jose, Ca. 95134-1928