DukeNukem said:
The verdict is in, herniated discs at L4-L5 and L5-L6. Getting referred to a specialist and going from there. Ready to get some resolution and a path to healing.
I've been in the same boat on and off for years. Usually an acute event flares things back up then I work my way back to feeling better over a period of time. Been to PT a couple times.
These are my takeaways:
- When it flares up, focus on spine health with your basic movements. This can include bracing yourself even when brushing teeth and other minor tasks. Back Mechanic by Stuart McGill helped me with learning these techniques. Also bending your legs to pick things up properly, etc, Take your time. I am tall so that is one of my main triggers.
- Once the acute pain is reduced or gone, focus on strengthening your core and your posterior chain flexibility. I actually do barbell squats to help with this. Movement is your friend.
I know when I first started getting back pain in my 20s is freaked me out. Especially the thought of surgery. I am almost 38 now and have never had surgery. I still have flare ups but they almost come exclusively from when I've been pain free for a long period of time and I forget the spine health and strategy I laid out above.