Bulging Disc..

[regime]

Just wondering if anyone else suffers from a bulging lower disc here? I really need to strengthen my core, I think that's my issue. I mean I do my regular exercises that physio tells me to do but I really think I need more than that. I heard yoga might be great for me, better than pilates, is this true? Thanks for your help!

 

[brendaks1]

Regime,

What are your symptoms? Where is your bulging disc? I started with an L4/L5 bulging disc and had unsuccessful decompression surgery, and now will be having fusion surgery soon because the disc has reherniated and has a huge tear in it.

I do Pilates and love them to strengthen my core. My surgeon's nurse said people who have had spine surgery should avoid exercises and stretches that flex the spine. Yoga has some stretches and moves which are really bad for back problems. If you can identify which types of movements to avoid (perhaps with the advice of a physical therapist), I would think either Pilates or Yoga could benefit you.

 

[magne]

for strengthening core - I do 3 exercises suggested by my physio. as of now I am not venturing into yoga or pilates.

 

[redsmom]

I had had the 360 with hardware on my L4 and L5, Laminectomy on the L5 as well and the s1 was fused with donor bone (grafted). I had PT for five months which did help to some degree with the better mobility but my son who is a personal trainer himself hired one who specializes in Sports Medicine who is helping me to not only strengthen my core but also my hip mucles which have been out of whack because of my weak back. I don't train on machines but on a balance ball with hand weights and yes I do go to a class that is a corabination of yoga and pilates but the instructor always says to listen to your body so if it hurts don't do it and with the hardware still in place there are some movements I can't do. But with the stretches on the foam rollers it helps with the mobility and working on the ball reduces the stress on my back but I've lost ten pounRAB and now have muscle where I had flab but I'm only 75% of where I should be. I figured that my back was messed up for 7 years so it's ridiculous for me to think that I can fix that in a few months. I might suggest to you to try water aerobics, you get the water resistance and it's easy on your body. You may of course want to consult with either your PT or your doctor but more than likely they'll agree as mine did. I would suggest the water aerobics first if you haven't exercised in quite a while. Yoga is not as easy as it looks trust me! If you can find perhaps a beginners class then that's a different story altogether! But in what ever you do if it hurts, stop. So now you have two sides to the story. I work out three times a week at the gym for an hour a time and that's all you should be doing according to my trainer. One day of cardio and one day of weights but not together. Should you decide to go with a trainer let them know you disability so one that is qualified can be found that suits your need it's well worth it. I wish you more pain free days and nights, we're always a work in progress. Love, Viv