Back pain

Wow, it's been a while since I've seen this thread.

An update on me - turns out I've got a condition called ankylosing spondilitis - it's a hereditary auto-immune disease that causes inflammation of the spine, particularly in the lower back and pelvis. It flares up from time to time and I can't ride when it's bad (the most recent one has lasted about 4 months so far, which is killing me). It's a pretty rare condition but a blood test would show it up.

Sorry to hear you have been diagnosed with this. I have been doing a bit of reading up on it as my GP thought I may be suffering from it and I read that reducing starch intake in the diet can help reduce the symptoms as the bacteria that feed on it multiply and increase the auto-immune response.

I have just had my bloods and MRI results back and fortunately I have the all clear for any disease.
I do have however, two bulging discs at L5-S1 , a disc tear at L4 and some dehydration in some of the other discs. So not a great deal can be done other than physio, yoga and strengthening exercises.

I am relieved that there is nothing seriously wrong with me and the consultant said I can carry on cycling but I need to manage it properly. I hope to get some physio on the NHS as £60 per session is a little pricey.

But at least I know the cause of the problem and the fact that the serious pain I get is probably coming from the torn disc which can take years to heal :$
maybe I will be back down the track kicking arse next season, or maybe I will do something less explosive and more leisurely