Lumbar Joint Disease & Rowing

[tloewenberg]

I have been rowing a number of years as part of a general fitness regime that included elliptical training and walking. The elliptical machine was a monster and we elected not to move it when we relocated from CT to CO for retirement. A couple days ago, I experienced a lower back blow out that pained me enough to require a trip to an ER. The diagnosis was lumbar degenerative joint disease with a dose of lumbar paraspinal muscle spasm thrown in. During a follow-up visit with my primary care physician, he stated that the rowing is something I should consider dropping due to "strain on the back." Even though I'm all for heeding medical advice, I'm not enthused about leaving rowing unless I have to but I do recognize technique is important if I'm to continue. So.... short story long.... I'm looking for advise for the best way to get back in and what I should be particularly sensitive to (technique and other wise). Obviously, I've had this health issue for some time but it hasn't bit me until now. The pain has been a bear and isn't over yet, but assuming rowing is something I can get back into, what should be my timing? I'm looking for help on a recommended way to proceed forward without selling the rower. Thanks. TL

[Citroen]

Get a pair of slides for your ergo or trade it in for a C2 dynamic ergo.