Surfing Bad Back?

Question

I have injured my lower back in the past and have been out for a week due to it. I am currently getting back into my surfing and bodyboarding but find when i slam the beach hard i feel my back twinge and i'm worried i will get the same injury. If i were to were a back support under my wetsuit in the sea, like a weight lifting belt or similar would this help my back or do more damage? Anyone similar?

Answer 1

There is a device you can use that helps ease back stress.  It's called the Paddle Air and it is put on like a regular rash guard.  I injured my back several years back and when I do a lot of paddling in larger waves it sometimes acts up.  It doesn't take long to get used to wearing one and I think it has helped me a lot.  You might want to take a look at the endorsements on their web site.

http://www.paddleair.com/

Answer 2

Is your lower back really injured, or are you just suffering from typical lower back pain?

If you're like most, the back support will help, as will proper stretching and exercise.

If you are truly injured, you might do more damage than good.

I have cured my lower back problems, and surf without a brace or support, by daily doing the classic preventive lower back excercises and stretches.

Answer 3

Hard to say, since you don't specify what kind of injury you've had. There's no harm in trying a back support, maybe an elastic one so your range of movement isn't compromised.

I think you would benefit from motor control training for your back, so that your muscles would support your back as well as possible. Also it would help you with your balance and reactions.