Too Many Variables

Success! The chiropractor was kind enough to e-mail my x-rays so I can now take a look at my spine anytime I want!

(Front view of my spine. Kinda cool.)

(Side view. The disc space of concern is circled in red.)

I sent a copy to Dr. Brother and he is still doubtful that my pain is being caused by the narrowing of that joint. He still suspects a muscular problem, but like a good doctor, he recommends I follow up with a specialist for a second opinion. I tried to schedule an appointment with the physical therapist that treated Liz, but I forgot that they can only treat patients with a prescription. So I either have to meet with my primary physician, or convince him to fax a prescription for PT so I can get in early next week.

I've been going over all of the possible causes of my back problems and there are just too many variables to narrow it down to one thing. Was it related to the triathlon training? I don't usually swim and bike that often. Is it the cushionless seat on my bike that hurts my sitz bones? Am I running differently with all of this speedwork? Are my hamstrings too tight? Are my abs too weak? Is my iliopsoas muscle too tight from slouching in my chair at work? Did I cause an imbalance from sitting with the same leg crossed all the time while I'm in session with a client? Does it have to do with the lack of cushion in my chair at work?

So many possible causes and no way to sort them out one by one. For now, I'll treat the symptoms with meds and rest and hopefully, I'll see the PT on Monday. I've been feeling much better since Monday so I'm hopeful that this plan is working.

Wednesday
Goal For The Day: Bike Ride.
Distance: 14.63 Miles.
Time: 52:06. 16.8mph Avg.
Route: To Rte. 66/3 Laps/Home
Conditions: 74 degrees! 7:45AM.

Notes: A rare morning ride. Not as many people out and about and I left too late to see any deer in the park. But the weather broke late last week and it felt amazingly cool this morning! Not a bad ride, but the weather makes me want to run.

Daily Miles: 14.63 Miles.
Blog Totals:
  Run - 160.84 Miles.
  Bike - 96.80 Miles.
  Swim - 7,200 meters.