Heating pad for lower back while training

Kevin Shaughnessy · 04-29-2010, 06:11 PM

Hi,

Is it at all dangerous to but a hot gel pack on your lower back while you train to keep you very warm? I doubt it is but I just want to make certain.

Thanks.

Derek Weaver · 04-29-2010, 06:40 PM

I don't see how it could be anything but a nuisance. Maybe good to wear while warming up if that's a problem.

Steven Low · 04-29-2010, 06:53 PM

Pretty much what Derek said.

If you're having low back issues you probably should be focusing on rehab instead of other stuff.

A belt will keep your lower back warm after you warm up anyway... so you should probably use one if you're going to use anything.

Steve Shafley · 04-29-2010, 07:54 PM

The cheap neoprene belts you get anywhere are decent for this. The Tommy Kono Waist Belt is a more expensive and higher quality option. A bit more supportive and durable.

Derek Weaver · 04-29-2010, 08:12 PM

Question. Why are you considering this?

If you've got a problem with your back that is limiting range of motion, a heating pad is going to be a band aid over a gaping wound.

Garrett Smith · 04-30-2010, 06:33 AM

Depends on the type of training you're doing.

If you aren't addressing the problem, there are larger issues at hand.

Maybe add some reverse hypers a la Westside style, those would probably help.

Kevin Shaughnessy · 04-30-2010, 08:14 AM

Im considering it because I dinged up my back doing squats and deadlifts almost 2 years ago (bad form mostly) and I dont want it to happen again now that I'm taking them back up. My back is fine doing them, I just want to be as safe as I can be.

As for it being a nuisance, I have one with velcro straps that easily attaches and stays secure, so it wouldn't be.

Garrett, you said it depends on what type of training I would be doing. It would be barbell training, namely squats and deadlifts.

Thanks.

Mark Fenner · 05-01-2010, 05:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Shaughnessy

Im considering it because I dinged up my back doing squats and deadlifts almost 2 years ago (bad form mostly) and I dont want it to happen again now that I'm taking them back up. My back is fine doing them, I just want to be as safe as I can be.

Passive methods of heat can be helpful in warming up -- and that warm up can really lube injuries (new or old). A few to consider (that don't require strapping stuff to your body):

Wear an extra set of sweat pants/sweat shirt over your normal clothes.
Wear an extra set of quick dry (Under Armor like) under your normal clothes.
Maybe remove layers when you start dripping.
Use Icy Hot, Tiger Balm, Flexall or some other heat rub.
Turn the heat up in the car on the way to the gym.
Take a hot shower _before_ working out.
Do a few minutes of extra movement before starting to lift (if you are concerned about your back, don't start out with heavy C2 rowing and a barbell complex that includes cleans, dls, etc. Perhaps consider the complex with PVC pipe, slower movment, and perfect form. Or maybe, do that second or third.)
Consider using the heating pad before training and also consider ice immediately after. Ice again a bit later. Go back to heat and/or ice the next day (an off day).

If life and insurance make it available, get professional help.

Best,
Mark

Dave Van Skike · 05-01-2010, 08:24 AM

you can pretty easily use a rehband or Kono soft neoprene 'belt" and you'll find you back gets and stays quite warm... a good practice for tricky backs include a)fix whatever is going on in your hips and shoulders that's contributing and b) pump some blood into it every day. i like band good mornings. lots. by lots i mean multiple sets of 40-50. every day.