Herniated disc

[bassaiguy]

A few weeks ago I injured my back. Apparently I have a herniated L5/S1 disc. My chiropractor says I need two weeks of intensive treatments and then we can assess whether I'll need medical intervention or should continue with chiro. Has anyone else experienced this? I can barely walk and training is definitely out of the question. What's the prognosis?

[Evil Dave]

Although your Chiro is probably right, I'd do a double check with your doctor and maybe get an x-ray or cat scan to confirm this. Other then that, take the time needed to heal! Don't come back to training too fast, it'll hurt more in the end.

[ninjanurse]

Ouch! take care of your back now so that you have many more years of training ahead! They can be healed with rest, chiropractic, and for myself-acupuncture. Here's to healing fast bassai!!!

[DWx]

Sounds painful! Get well soon. Have you seen a doc yet? Maybe they could recommend some physio and prescribe painkillers too?

[bushido_man96]

Never have experienced this, and I feel bad for you. I hope it heals soon!

[Zaine]

For my money I'd go with physical therapy. I just trust it more and adjustments can have bad long term effects such as stroke. I've hade radiculopathy in my L5 and a pinched nerve in my neck that I just got over and PT helped very much. Plus, if you're a Martial Artist and someone who works out, PT will be right up your alley I think.

[bassaiguy]

I'm trying to get into my doc's office after New Year's. I'm hoping for a PT referral rather than pain meds. I don't tolerate them well and don't like to take unnecessary medication. I've been seeing my chiro daily this week and that has helped. In addition I'm doing exercises called MacKenzies that reorient the lower spine. That seems to be helping.

I hate being laid up, but I guess "Go slow" is good advice. Thanks, gents.