Disc Herniation Rehab

[David_S]

Coach,

I herniated a disc (from my own research I think L5-S1, my chiropractor didn't specify) while deadlifting and I have been receiving chiropractic treatment for it for about a month now. This has mostly consisted of adjustments, electric current running through my back, heat and cold, as well as some ultrasound. My day-to-day condition has improved overall, but for the past week or so I haven't really noticed this as much, and I haven't been feeling optimistic about being able to train again anytime soon. I have been doing some squatting (with no load) to try and keep my mobility up to snuff, and it seems to help (both the local and sciatic pain). I am unable to do an unloaded good morning without sciatic pain. I am 20 years old and have been active my whole life.

How long can I expect to have to wait before resuming training? Is there anything more that I could be doing to speed this up? I'm open to whatever can help: exercises, stretching, recovery methods, modifications to my day-to-day life, etc.

My chiropractor definitely seems to be helping, but I thought it would be great to hear from someone with extensive experience working with athletes. I realize that this isn't a black-and-white answer, but any help would be appreciated. I am excited to train again! Whenever that may be.

Thank you!
David Schonborn

[Charles Staley]

David, there's no way to say how long it will take, but if it was me, I'd get a medical diagnosis. Find out exactly what you're dealing with. Can you do this soon? Otherwise we're just guessing.


Coach,

I herniated a disc (from my own research I think L5-S1, my chiropractor didn't specify) while deadlifting and I have been receiving chiropractic treatment for it for about a month now. This has mostly consisted of adjustments, electric current running through my back, heat and cold, as well as some ultrasound. My day-to-day condition has improved overall, but for the past week or so I haven't really noticed this as much, and I haven't been feeling optimistic about being able to train again anytime soon. I have been doing some squatting (with no load) to try and keep my mobility up to snuff, and it seems to help (both the local and sciatic pain). I am unable to do an unloaded good morning without sciatic pain. I am 20 years old and have been active my whole life.

How long can I expect to have to wait before resuming training? Is there anything more that I could be doing to speed this up? I'm open to whatever can help: exercises, stretching, recovery methods, modifications to my day-to-day life, etc.

My chiropractor definitely seems to be helping, but I thought it would be great to hear from someone with extensive experience working with athletes. I realize that this isn't a black-and-white answer, but any help would be appreciated. I am excited to train again! Whenever that may be.

Thank you!
David Schonborn

[David_S]

David, there's no way to say how long it will take, but if it was me, I'd get a medical diagnosis. Find out exactly what you're dealing with. Can you do this soon? Otherwise we're just guessing.

I've seen my family doctor who told me that I probably had herniated a disc. She also recommended that I schedule an MRI to know for sure, which I have sent in the paperwork for (apparently there is a wait) but I have not heard back yet. She said it was also likely that I'd just have to wait it out.

I was just wondering if you had any experience with this sort of thing and knew of ways to relieve the pain or help the disc heal.

Thanks!