mgm777
07-28-2011, 08:57 PM
A few weeks ago, I rode the Triple Bypass and when finished I experienced pretty severe spasms in my lower back. After I got off the bike, my back felt "unstable", as if a sudden turn or twist could cause my back to go "out". I have experienced these spasms before, usually with long days in the saddle and lots of climbing. My back is usually sensitive and stiff for a day or so afterwards, but will return to normal after a couple of days of rest and recovery. However, this time, after the Triple Bypass, my wife signed me up for a post-ride massage in the finish area. This is an indulgence I have never experienced before. After the massage, with lots of stretching of my hips, quads, and hamstrings, my back felt nearly normal. I was very surprised by how normal my back felt immediately after the massage. I didn't have that "unstable" feeling in my back and I wasn't stiff or sore. Now, I understand why the pros get massages after each ride. If I had the resources, I'd get a massage every couple of days. If you haven't taken advantage of the post ride massage tent at a big ride, I'd urge you to do so. It made a huge difference for me in my recovery.