Herniated disks?

Question

I'm 26, no kids, I have 2 herniated disks (L4 and L5). L5 was an old injury. I think it happened when I was in the 4th grade and fell out of a swing, but it never really bothered me. L4 happened a couple of years ago, and now I have a lot of problems. I don't agree with having a nerve block, that only covers up the pain...it doesn't fix it. Surgery is not an option according to my doctor. They say I need to build muscle strength in my stomach and back, but I haven't found any exercises I am able to physically do. Symptoms are extreme pain, numbness and tingling in both legs, both arms, neck, and around my right shoulderblade. This isn't all the time, but I would say a majority of the time. I have at least some problems/symptoms on a daily basis (mostly just the pain). Anyone have any ideas or suggestions?

I don't have medical insurance, and physical therapy is a bit expensive...I was looking more for some things I could try on my own...a certain type of exercise (or exercise equipment), home remedies, etc.

Answer 1

Although I strongly recommend physical therapy, if it is too expensive, research pilates classes in your area. The best classes are those that are one on one or very small so you get the individualized attention you need. Pilates starts with gentle neutral exercises to strengthen the core abdominal and back muscles. As you get stronger, you will be able to progress your exercises.

Here is a key exercise - strengthen the transverse abdominus muscle. Lay on your back with your knees bent. Gently pull your belly button down towards the floor. Do this without causing your back to move and do not allow your ribcage to pop up. Do not cause pain. If you experience pain with this exercise, try again with less of a contraction.

At no time during any exercise should you experience numbness and tingling in the extremities. If you do - stop what you are doing. The idea is that you want to centralize pain to the back first, and then decrease the back pain.

See your doctor immediately if you have:
1) Bladder and/or bowel dysfunction, causing you to retain waste or be unable to hold it.
2) Severe or progressive problems in the lower extremities including loss of or altered sensation between the legs, over the buttocks, inner thighs and back of legs (saddle area), and feet/heels.
3) Pain, numbness or weakness spreading to one or both legs that may cause you to stumble or have difficulty getting up from a chair.

Answer 2

Easy solution. Have your doctor write you a perscription to go to a physical therapist. They have all the knowledge and expertise to get you to do specific exercises and routines to build the muscles and strengthen the areas to help your back.

I had this for a shoulder problem where surgery wasn't an option. Worked great even though i was skeptical at the beginning. At the end of 2 months it was like i never had a problem.