Exercise with Chronic Lumbar Issues

[That Jekka Gal]

I've had crippling back pain for almost a year - turns out I have severe spinal stenosis and a herniated disc.

I've also been going to the gym regularly- 4 times a week - for the past 3 years and exercise quite intensely.

I've been told to avoid a lot of the exercises I'm doing and even the ones that are ok - i.e.won't overload or twist my back - I have to do at a reduced intensity - which kind of defeats my whole raison d'etre for going to the gym .

I'm sure there are plenty of others on here with chronic back issues - just wondering how you manage with routines that are still a good workout but go easy on your back.

As I said, I thought I could just cut out any of the things I'm doing unsupported e.g. easy bar curls and do more stuff prone on the bench but even this exerts pressure on the lower back and is to be avoided, apparently.

 

[moppy89]

You probably need a physio opinion rather than strangers on the internet.

I would imagine that the muscles around your back need strengthening to help support the injury which means those muscles need stimulus to grow. The tricky part is finding the correct intensity and mechanism to stimulate growth without injuring the spine

 

[tom_nieto]

Physiotherapy input is very helpful.

I have had to switch to swimming to rehabilitate my back. I don’t like it, but it’s like magic for my back.

 

[adidan]

My OH and her family have all had back issues over varying degrees, her dad's had several operations.

The only thing that seems to help keep hers in check is regular pilates and sports massages.

Pilates is probably a good bet though, you can stretch as much or as little as you need/can.

 

[That Jekka Gal]

You probably need a physio opinion rather than strangers on the internet.

I would imagine that the muscles around your back need strengthening to help support the injury which means those muscles need stimulus to grow. The tricky part is finding the correct intensity and mechanism to stimulate growth without injuring the spine

Yes, that'll be happening soon.

I guess it's just good to hear positive stories from people whobhave been in a similar position.

The thought of not being able to do weights in the gym or go on long walks seriously deprsses me - they are both things I use to manage my sanity!

 

[Nabinium]

The thought of not being able to do weights in the gym or go on long walks seriously deprsses me - they are both things I use to manage my sanity!

I felt the same when I had an injury that knocked me out the gym/any strenuous exercise for about 5 weeks! Only 5 weeks, but not being able to exercise during that was very difficult after being consistent for a few years.

Hopefully the physiotherapist can help you out.