The Surfer

"I initially injured my back in October 2003 while I was surfing. After hyperextending during a turn, my lower back went into spasm which left me in considerable pain and unable to fully flex or extent from the waist. I had had previous episodes of lower back spasm which had resolved overnight, however on this occasion after nearly two weeks my back had showed very little sign of improvement.

Over the next two months I went to see a physiotherapist but this didn't give my any real improvement in my symptoms. During this time I was still in discomfort and un-able to do any serious physical activity. An MRI of my lumber spine eventually showed that I had a disc tear and posterior bulge of my L5-S1 invertebral disc. Eventually, several months after my injury I began going to stretching classes on the ad-vice of a friend who had had a similar injury. I initially started doing one group class and one private class a week. Within only a few weeks I started to notice an improvement, not only in my level of pain, but also in my general flexibility. Over the next six months I couldn't believe the progress I was making. My flexibility had improved out of sight and the pain in my lower back had completely resolved.

I was able to return to surfing and other physical activities and even felt better than prior to my injury due to my new found flexibility. Now, 18 months after my injury I couldn't feel better, my pain has not returned, and I am continuing to stretch on a regular basis, not only to avoid re-injuring my back, but also to enhance my general sense of health and wellbeing."

James Simpson, Surfer

Newcastle, Australia

P&F Therapist and Teacher: Sharon Clark