Weight training with L5 injury

lewispwest

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if I could get some advice on what training I can do with an L5 back injury. I did it twisting my back on a weights bench last year and the physiotherapy didn't do anything to help it and any weights exercises I do seem to make it hurt more.

Any ideas on any training I can do to strengthen that region of muscles and hopefully get past the pain?

Thanks for any advice!

Cherimoose

You probably should be asking your doctor or physio.

Did you get clearance from your doctor to lift weights?

Did you get your back scanned? What was the diagnosis?

lewispwest

I will be going back to the doctor to have it looked at again but I've had no word otherwise. I will stop doing it until I see them.

Funnily enough they were never that bothered about scanning my back which was an annoyance, I will push for it this time.

vms4evr

If you saw a physio, got told to do some PT or what have you, then a year later no improvement. Then you're not better. Leave the weights alone, period.

Get in to see your doc. A simple x-ray can show a completely collapsed disc. Barring that I'd be pushing to get an MRI done. Then take it from there. That is good indicator of not only L5, but they'll get a shot of your whole lumbar spine. L4-L5 and L5-S1 are typical problem areas. I'm fused at L5-S1.

If you have hip/leg pain that isn't good. If the pain goes down to your ankle, that is bad.

FitMe758

I have issues with L4-L5 and L5-S1. (and all my C spine, boo) Sometimes I can barely walk, lately it has been better than it has in years.

You really should ask your treating doctor because there is isn't one standard answer --it depends on your time of injury, level of damage, degree of currently inflammation etc..

I wish I could do heavy weight, but I am to afraid to try them. So I am sticking with lighter weights, cardio, yoga, pilates and core exercises.

I figure that since my core is weak, that will make me more prone to accidents. But if I strengthen it, then it will feel as if I am wearing a built in back brace.

Your treating doctor should give you a list of rehabilitative exercises and/or refer you to a therapist.
If you do decide to try yoga, please tell your instructor your exact condition so he/she can modify the moves to suit you. Certain yoga moves can exacerbate back issues, particularly if not modified properly.

If, down the road you decide to run, go to a running store and get fitted for proper shoes. It has made all the difference for me.

Best of luck on your journey.

lewispwest

Thanks for your advice guys, will leave the weights well alone and go book a doctors appointment and will push for a scan.