Training around low back pain, legs specifically

[Evom1]

Who else here deals with low back pain? For the past 6 years I get a pain/"spasm" right around L4/L5 in my low back during squats deadlift etc. Sometimes I have no issues, sometimes I can't get more than one or two sets in. A belt always makes it flare up worse (I know that sounds weird)

I'll have days I can pull deadlifts just fine, great form no belt no pain. Other days I'll go to squat and it sucks. If I walk around for 5-10mins most times it goes away.

What do some of you guys do to really hammer legs, while working around low back pain? For instance tonight leg press, hack squat, and barbell squat all hurt it. And of course stiff leg deads did also.

BTW I've had imaging done, no damage my hips are just slightly twisted. I've seen a chiropractor for years which helps immensely. Also get regular deep tissue massage on my legs glutes and back which also helps.

Curious to hear everyone's suggestions!

 

[Demondosage]

warm up with a few sets of hyperextensions with just your bodyweight. I would begin with the lower half of the movement for a set, then the upper half for another set, then try full ROM for an additional set.

Stay clear of barbell squats for awhile, just leg press, use moderate weight that doesn't aggravate it, kick reps higher. Thats what I'd do anyways

 

[Evom1]

Oddly enough, 9/10 times leg press makes it act up, squats are 50/50. Front squats seem to work best.

I'll try hyper extensions. I know if I do more than 10-12 I get a crazy pump/spasm right there

 

[RingMeister01]

Stay away from deadlifts. Try the squats on a smith machine.


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[Demondosage]

maybe use a tens unit prior to gymtime if the issue is a spasm?? If you can get someone to put the electrodes on your lower back anyways

 

[Evom1]

The TENS unit was actually what I've been thinking.

Example I was able to do deadlifts this week, all the way up to 495 with no pain at all

 

[Demondosage]

go to lgmedsupply.com , I ordered on for like $35 and it works great

 

[Mauricio]

i have the same experience as @Evom1 can't do leg press because my lower back flares up right away. try dumbbell squats feels better than when i do barbell

 

[Cownan]

The TENS unit was actually what I've been thinking.

Example I was able to do deadlifts this week, all the way up to 495 with no pain at all

2 items I didnt cheap out on

TENS machine

Cryo-cuff

Both have served me extremely well