Newbie here - pulled a back muscle?

Absinthe started this discussion · 7/6/2012

Hi all! I've noticed a pain sort of between my shoulder blades but on the lower end toward the tip of the shoulder blade and more on the right (my dominant side). I've been working on the helicopter hold (V invert) and wonder if I pulled something doing that? Now whenever I do I pole hold or pole up or start to invert, it hurts. Has anyone done that before? How do I avoid this injury in the future? Thanks so much!

4 replies

CapFeb · 7/6/2012
I had the same pain, and it was a ripped rotator cuff (also from inverting). Stay off the pole and consult a professional, as it could be anything to an inflammed muscle to an out of place rib.
Dancing Paws · 7/6/2012
I used to get that same pain in school from carrying overly heavy backpacks. You should talk to the doc and see if it's a strain, tear, etc. they will tell you what to do to rehab it properly. We're you inverting properly?
Absinthe · 7/6/2012
Thanks for replying so quickly gals. I don't think it's a shoulder injury because it's fairly low on my back. My instructors tell me I have a very strong and controlled invert. But the inverted V is a new move... I've been working on tipping back more so my hips are higher up and my legs are parallel to the floor. I'll lay off of inverting for now and rest whatever I've pulled. If it's still a problem after resting it, I'll see someone. Thank you both!
Danielle Tillie · 7/7/2012
Do you ever come back down from an inverted V quickly, because the balance wasn't there? The force of "flopping" back down from an inverted (without slowing the descent) can strain back muscles in the area. Take time off from inverting like you said. You can use ibuprofen for the pain. It will also help relax the muscle. When you come back to inverting, avoid coming back down from an invert the same way you went up until you can do it slow and controlled. Instead, catch the pole with your feet and slide down to the floor. Feel better!