I've been sidelined for several weeks with back pain, first day testing the waters squatting again. Feels good!
This isn't my first time with back issues so goal is to focus on volume rather than max weight for awhile to reduce risk of aggravating whatevers going on.
I think that has been the problem in the past. Worried about losing strength so jumping back in before I'm ready and re-injuring - rinse and repeat.
I like the tempo work idea, increase intensity without increasing absolute weight/strain. I am doing Romanians and am also focusing on unilateral work with Bulgarians/lunges to try and improve stability.