what exercises would be helpful for a flat disc problem?

Question

I just discovered that I have two collapsed discs. and it is painful.

Answer 1

I guess it depends on to what extent of "collapse" & how much help you want...
you can't "puff" those discs back up, sorry to say, but working out with a big swiss gym ball is really good for most anyone with back pain & I reccomend them to 99% of my back pain patients.
I would go find a trainer at your gym (even the YMCA has them) to show you just the basics... if you have a bad back, there are things you shouldn't do, and things you easily CAN do on a gym ball... but with proper instruction, and it IS worth paying someone just for 2-3 sessions to teach you so you don't hurt yourself, you can get a good little home based workout going.
** dont just follow a video, often they get pretty advanced pretty quickly, and you may hurt your discs.

1) start just sitting on your ball (make sure its pumped up nice & firmly) & bounce on it... do this as often as you like at home-- it takes pressure off the spine & discs, improves circulation in the discs
it will improve your balance too... keep feet knee width apart.

2) try a hula-hoop motion if that feels OK-- slow & gently...if ANYTHING ever hurts, stop!!!
hula hoop both ways... as much as you like.

3) have your instructor show you the "BRIDGE/TABLE TOP"

4)also learn the BIRD-DOG/ QUADRIPED pose

these are just basics. there are plenty more.

***Also ask yoour doctor if he/she thinks this is a good program, I think it should be ok, but I am not familiar with you or your case at all!!!
Gym balls strengthen & stabilize the "CORE" muscles & do help people w/ disc problems. They will not reduce the flatness of your discs, but may reduce some of your pain & help you function better.
good luck

Answer 2

I have had lumbar surgical procedure (laminectomy and discectomy) on my L3/four, L4/five, and L5/S1. I was once anguish severe again ache and sciatica in each legs to the factor wherein i used to be in a wheel chair. I'm best 25 years ancient and I am now becoming a member of the Army - that is how capable my surgical procedure has been. Pleeeeeease prevent a fusion. if it is most likely integral, ask for a synthetic disc, however prevent having to fuse your discs in any respect charges. I were a private instructor and rehab professional for years and percent shrewd you'll be able to become with much more problems with a fusion.

Answer 3

You have to be very careful with deteriated discs, as I'm sure you know. You can't do anything strenuous or jarring. Flexibility (or stretching) exercises are best to start with, so you can loosen and tone the muscles. Do not stretch far enough that intense pain is evident. A stationary bicycle should be a safe aerobic exercise for you. Start slowly and stop if pain occurs.

Answer 4

I'd suggest that you consult a medical professional rather than take advice from people whose qualifications you don't know.