Originally Posted by
@robswelding
You and I are similar in age and size so this has been interesting to read.
I'm 42, 5'7" and started at 160lb body weight. I'm currently 10 weeks in and had a similar back pain / injury episode right around the same time and weight you did. I did a couple of weeks of Bill Starr style rehab, a large de-load, and worked back up in 5 lb increments despite being able to do more. I think the gradual increase gave me time to let my squat form become automatic and, (possible broscience here) allow my ligaments to strengthen. I recently passed the weights at which I injured myself and am doing ok so far but being very careful.
I must say, though, I'm jealous of your upper body results. My press stalled hard at 100lb and I'm still LP-ing the bench 2lb at a time at 166. You were well beyond these numbers at 10 weeks. Well done sir.