I was a horse-racing jockey for 10 years and never had an injury. I quit the sport, but now I’m having a lot of pain in my low back. Is this normal?

Unfortunately, yes. In a recent study of 32 jockeys of all ages, nearly half reported some pain in physical activities as a result of their riding. This pain was mostly in the low back, or in both the lower and upper back. Back problems were the most pronounced for jockeys who were over age 35 and had been racing an average of 24 years.  

Even though you didn’t have any serious injuries, the rigors of horse racing may have stressed your spine in ways that can lead to problems over time. A doctor or physical therapist can help you learn ways keep your pain under control.