BoxRec

OK.... So, I was power lifting with a buddy of mine a couple years back. Had to stop because I injured my lower back (due to poor form most likely) doing squats and power lifts. I went to the doctors 2 years ago and had x-rays done. The doctor was not very thorough. He told me I had arthritis in my lower back.

Shortly after this visit, my tailbone started hurting when I would get up from sitting. Sharp, short pain. I dealt with it. Fast forward to a few weeks ago.... My lower back hasn't been hurting nearly as bad as it had a couple years ago... Tail bone pain still there... Middle of my back started hurting while I was sleeping. Went to a different doctor. He scheduled xrays and MRIs. Turns out I have several bulged discs in my lumber and thoracic. I also have a tear at my L5-S1... He is sending me to see a neurosurgeon. My doctor believes that I will need surgery on the torn disc. I'm ok with that.

Now, with these bulged discs, which they are calling "Degenerative Disc Disease", what types of exercises and training can I do to help out my back and slow down the degeneration?

I'm assuming some stretching; yoga; core exercises...

Stretching, focusing on the hamstrings for your particular problem. Core work, try and keep a neutral spine when lifting. I don't know where your body weight is at but if you're heavier than you should be then try and lose a little as it will make the recovery process easier. Things like yoga as you mentioned will help as well, but you'll always want to make the instructor aware. Lifting weights isn't your enemy, it can actually really help you by building the strength in the area. That being said obviously you should be pulling or squatting heavy. Try and keep the spine in a neutral position.

The main thing is this: do your physical therapy after surgery! Trust me, I end up seeing more people who are really screwed up later in life because they skipped on PT post surgery/injury.

Impractical Poster wrote:OK.... So, I was power lifting with a buddy of mine a couple years back. Had to stop because I injured my lower back (due to poor form most likely) doing squats and power lifts. I went to the doctors 2 years ago and had x-rays done. The doctor was not very thorough. He told me I had arthritis in my lower back.

Shortly after this visit, my tailbone started hurting when I would get up from sitting. Sharp, short pain. I dealt with it. Fast forward to a few weeks ago.... My lower back hasn't been hurting nearly as bad as it had a couple years ago... Tail bone pain still there... Middle of my back started hurting while I was sleeping. Went to a different doctor. He scheduled xrays and MRIs. Turns out I have several bulged discs in my lumber and thoracic. I also have a tear at my L5-S1... He is sending me to see a neurosurgeon. My doctor believes that I will need surgery on the torn disc. I'm ok with that.

Now, with these bulged discs, which they are calling "Degenerative Disc Disease", what types of exercises and training can I do to help out my back and slow down the degeneration?

I'm assuming some stretching; yoga; core exercises...

Go see the physio but make sure it's one who works with athletes - that gives you best chance they'll advise some kind of active rehab an not just 'rest it'. Having said this, disc issues are serious ones and your chances of hurting yourself badly are dramatically increased. People with preexisting issues can get injured even with seemingly spotless form. I've seen it many times, so be careful.

Impractical Poster wrote:Now, with these bulged discs, which they are calling "Degenerve Disc Disease", what types of exercises and training can I do to help out my back and slow down the degeneration? I'm assuming some stretching; yoga; core exercises...

Use an inversion machine.. The kind that locks your sport shoes and ankles in place, then you flip upside-down to hang from your ankles.. The blood will rush to your head and you have to work up to it.. Don't invert yourself too long at first and gradually extend your time -- but always right your body before you feel dizzy.. What it does is separate your discs a little and stimulates them to heal and rebuild..

Back extensions will work, but because of your condition you have to start VERY slowly... Maybe just do a partial one to start with... If that is too much for your back -- get into your workout shorts, lay flat on your back on your bed.. lift one leg at a time keep it straight and going as far as you can.. Do 2 lifts with one leg than 2 lifts with your other leg... Do them for 20 minutes every day and In a few months you will notice the difference.