American luger Tony Benshoof has suffered a recurrence of back pain problems shortly before his first big race of the season.

The Minnesota-born athlete, who has been troubled by back injuries for several years, announced on his Twitter feed on Thursday (November 19th) that the problem had returned.

However, USA Luge spokesperson Gordy Sheer told the Associated Press that Benshoof is still planning to race in Calgary this weekend as he prepares for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver next February.

"He's viewing it as a bump in the road. He's optimistic," Sheer explained.

"This pain is different. Overall, he doesn't think it's like last year."

Bemshoof underwent surgery last December in an attempt to reduce the pain in his back.

He holds two silver medals from the World Luge Championships and narrowly missed out on bronze at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, where he finished fourth.

Ultrasound machines can be used to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing for back pain sufferers.