For anyone who does an ellipical machine

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SKZ

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Since I am trying new aerobic options out (and running out of them), I would like to know how you all do with an elliptical machine?
Thanks
 
I bought one after reading on the internet they were better than treadmills for people with back problems. (Not as much impact) I used it a couple days in Noveraber and my back was really hurting. I had problems over two years from a car accident. That's when my Doc finally convinced me to have surgery.

I had a Micro-d on L4-5 March 25th. I will be going to my 6 week follow up this week. I am still sore and am having thigh pain which I didn't have before. But my low back feels better. I am going to start using it soon, and will let you know how it goes.
I hope you are doing well.
 
Some people here have loved the elliptical machine. I didn't do so well with it. For me, the treadmill is much better. I actually injured my foot on the elliptical machine because you have to have some spine movement to use it, and I'm fused from T4 to Sacrum. Once I got going on the elliptical, I found that one heel was slamming down with every step because I just couldn't "go" with the machine. I also have osteoporosis, and I suspect that I got a tiny fracture. I never got it x-rayed, but from the amount of time it took to stop hurting, it probably was a tiny hairline fracture.

If you have access to a physical therapist, he/she could tell you what type of machine would be best for your particular back problem. Others here will probably chime in, too. Whichever you try, just start off carefully and listen to your body. I'm glad I got off the elliptical quickly and didn't do further damage.

Take care,
Emily
 
I have an elipitical, a treadmill and a recurabant bike. The treadmill I have had sitting for years. The elipitical we bought a few months ago. I was told by a physical therapist his opinion it was easier on the back. I started using it prior to back surgery in March. I have been so messed up for 3 years I was only able to go 1/4 mile before pooping out. Thank goodness though it made my legs strong enough to use them after surgery. I like the elipitical alot. For me it is not hard on my joints. I too have osteroporosis. I get winded very quickly on it. I am now also using my treadmill. I feel like my thigh muscles get a better work out on the eliptical but both seem to be ok for me to use.
 
Before my spinal ordeal i used to belong to the gym and elliptical machine was part of my cardio training as well as treadmill. I usually run on treadmill for 45 minutes and than 30 minutes on Elliptical. Next day I would switch.:)

Never had any problems... until tried Elliptical after my first surgery. I couldn't get up next day due to bad pain. My PT explained to me that while on Elliptical we shift our bodies (which is true) from side to side, especially if you do "claiming". Shifting from side to side is painful for me personally even if I just stand; so I can't do it so far, hoping maybe in a future I will be able to get better and use it.

All the best to you!
 
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