Return to CrossFit after Lower Back Injury

Each month, Iron Physical Therapy highlights a special patient to tell their inspiring story. We want to honor people who go all in - body, mind and spirit. They show us what’s possible - that you can move on from a setback to do amazing things...to challenge your body, to chase your dreams, to address future pain in a healthy way, to #getbetterbebetter. Read Steven’s story below and then click here to read more inspiring patient stories.

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When this crossfitter had surgery due to an unrelated accident, he knew he would be out of the game for awhile. Even though no one is ever quite prepared for how hard it is to have patience during the healing process, Steven never complained once! With his positive attitude and strong work ethic to recover, this athlete is setting himself up for an epic return to CrossFit!

In Steven’s own words…

1. What brought you into physical therapy?

I was in a car accident almost 3 years ago and sustained a lower back injury that eventually required me to have surgery.

2. How long have you been doing CrossFit? What’s your favorite part about it?

I’ve been doing CrossFit for about 8 years. I really enjoy the group setting and everyone pushing each other.

3. What would you say to other people who are living or training in pain?

I would say to definitely go get it checked out by a DPT and try physical therapy before anything. Not worth pushing through it because you could end up with a more severe injury.

4. What accomplishment in physical therapy are you most proud of?

I’m still very early in the recovery process, but I have made a lot of progress and look forward to continued improvement.

5. What lesson from PT could you bring to your daily life or CrossFit training regimen?

I would say having a better warmup regimen when I go back to CrossFit and always making sure I’m doing what I can to keep my core strength, which will help avoid further injuries to my back and the rest of my body.