Ouch, My Back!

Yesterday afternoon, I injured my back again. This time, it's my lower back. It was the first time at that region and it definitely felt the worst so far. It was upsetting coz I very RARELY get injured. I was just doing my usual deadlifts and going into the 3rd set. I added another 5lbs and got into my 4th or 5th rep when suddenly, I felt a sudden strong pull from my lower back. Alarmed, I dropped the barbell and almost immediately the pain hit me. It wasn't a sharp pain, but rather a pulling, stiff pain.

It was stiff and painful enough that sitting, standing or any movement at all made me cringe in pain. Immediately, I packed my stuff and left the gym cursing. I REALLY hate getting sick or injured, and was dead worried how long it would take to recover. After much struggling, I managed to get into the car, drive home, pull myself out of the car, took a quick shower and went to see a doctor immediately. He gave me 3 days worth of painkillers and muscle relaxants, as well as an MC for today. I contemplated getting a massage and was thinking of asking for a good masseuse from Shawn, who had suffered a similar case before.

Luckily for me, a friend of mine, Justin said that he could help me out that evening. He used to work in a massage center and knew what he was doing. I know the real pain of such an injury would usually come with a vengeance the next day, so I immediately agreed. I'd hate to have this drag out for a week, so I was up for anything (credible of course) to help me recover ASAP. The massage session was kinda painful, but it was really worth it. I felt much needed relief as the pain subsided a little and my back felt less tense and tight.

I woke up this morning feeling better, although it's still a bit stiff. I guess I was lucky this time. It could have been worse, like a slipped disc, which would be friggin' excruciating. I really have Justin to thank, he really knew what he was doing.

To be honest, when I felt that injury, all I could think of was when I could start working out again. However, I won't be lifting until my back fully recovers. And when it's recovered, I'll be doing mostly upper body work and need to rehabilitate my back with light lower body work. I'll still be doing my cardio while gauging how my lower back feels. I hate to be idle. Didja think I was gonna quit and get scared? I'd rather face it head-on, and just be more careful in the future. Perhaps my form was a little incorrect during lifting, or I didn't concentrate at what I was doing, or I might've over-estimated my strength a little.

Bottom line is, I won't quit! I just need to be more careful.