| After 3 decades of once or twice-a-year back injuries (that took a few weeks to heal), in 2015 it didn't ever get better. MRI revealed bulging discs and herniation causing sciatica (which was a first) which varied from a mild, deep butt-muscle pain; to extreme, radiating all the way down to my ankle and sometimes my right testicle. NSAID anti-inflamatory drugs didn't do much. I was very lucky to find a Physical Therapist who was said to be "good with backs." After a few sessions we found a combination of stretches and exercises that provided relief. Basically, my sciatic nerve was being impinged as it passed between vertebra as it exits my spinal column. The stretches were some specific rotations of upper body relative to lower body, which pretty quickly provided relief any time I needed it. Then some core strengthening which took a lot longer. Most important is to prevent re-injury through learning how to lift the right way (or actually more important - how to lift the wrong way so you know not to do it again). I've spoken with plenty of people who've had surgical repairs. Some worked. Many of them didn't, and those people encouraged me to try every possible thing under the sun before considering surgery. I was prepared to pray, swim, stretch, exercise, acupuncture, yoga, learn ballet, become vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, Santeria, voodoo - just about anything. I got lucky. |
Herniated L4/5 disc 1.5 years ago where doctor said I will never be able to get on a bike or play sports or even sit and work. I do all of that now.
Spent 6-8 months just recovering with the help of NSAIDs and nerve pain pills (more helpful than generic NSAIDs).
But the key was to find the right physio/instructor who focussed a lot on improving nutrition (more greens and meat to lose weight) and just a TON of stretching every day - focussed on increasing leg strength, core strength and upper back strength. Losing weight and getting core strength + posture is all you will need.
I also switched to a standing desk - day and night difference.