Herniated Disc

My brother injured his back 6 years ago. He has struggled with the injury ever since and he recently suffered a setback which has forced him to take time off. He is sure it is a herniated disk but he will not know until he has an MRI scan.

Do you have any experience with herniated discs? I don't think surgical correction is an option for him so I guess he will have to continue training with the weakness.

 

I would advise your brother to consult it with a specialist. Every case is different and each patient’s treatment plan should be individualized based on the source of the pain. Most patients are told to start with a course of conservative care (non-surgical). Surgical intervention is very rare.

 

He consulted a so-called specialist years ago and he was told it will be fine. Six-years later he is still having problems. The doctors don't want to give MRI scans because they are expensive but he has finally been given one. Hopefully we will find out soon...

 

My dad experienced it and now his back hurts constantly. He could have had it fixed by having some sort of procedure at the time but that didn't happen. His back doesn't hurt that much but if he does some physical activity like lifting something it would hurt or if he runs.

 

Surgery isn't an option for most people and the surgery risks are quite high. It's not a risk my brother is prepared to take. He still hasn't had the MRI scan, it is taking forever. I'll keep you updated after the scan.

 

My brother hasn't had surgery but he has restarted weight training and he is building his strength in the deadlift. He is now back to where he was originally with regards to his strength so he is making good progress and managing his back injury well.