Weights -- Advice for back issues?

eep223
eep223 Posts: 624 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I'm super inspired by all the heavy lifting ladies on here! I have some little hand weights I've used a bit, hoping to tone my arms (and they are helping, with lots of reps), but most of my strength training (especially my core) has come from yoga and other body weight exercises. I would love to add more weights to my home routine. What's holding me back is that I have some disc issues in my back, and the thought of lifting heavy makes me wince in anticipated pain. Obviously, "no pain no gain," but not THAT kind of pain.

I want to do the work and build up my muscles enough to where I don't having to worry about tweaking my back when I lift anything. Any advice on how to to work up? Have any of you had a similar experience? Are there certain exercises I should avoid, or do you think I will be okay as long as I keep proper form?

I really need to read up on this, but I thought some of you may be able to speak from experience. Please don't bash me for my ignorance.

Replies

  • anyamb
    anyamb Posts: 52 Member
    This. I am in the same situation and would like to know the same thing.
  • eep223
    eep223 Posts: 624 Member
    Bump. C'mon... what happened to all the vocal lifters our there? Are we just out of luck?
  • JenMc14
    JenMc14 Posts: 2,389 Member
    I, personally, am hesitant to give advice on lifting to someone who has serious back issue. I am not a medical professional. I would suggest you seek advice from a physical therapist.
  • eep223
    eep223 Posts: 624 Member
    Good point. And I do have a series of exercises I worked on in physical therapy that I have continued with. I was hoping to get advice on moving forward from there, but perhaps your right. Scheduling another appointment with the pt may be in order.
  • ChrisLindsay9
    ChrisLindsay9 Posts: 837 Member
    When you talk to the physical therapist about this, and if he/she seems reluctant to provide weight training suggestions - ask the PT for a recommendation who can help. Maybe he/she knows of a personal trainer that's worked with people who have lower back issues?

    I'm certain there is expertise out there, hopefully you'll find it. Good luck!
  • eep223
    eep223 Posts: 624 Member
    Thanks, you two. Solid advice!
  • DrMAvDPhD
    DrMAvDPhD Posts: 2,097 Member
    I have a different kind of back issue (scoliosis). My orthopedic surgeon thinks lifting is a good idea but has told me to keep my progress specifically on deadlifts very slow. I never increase my weight more than 5 pounds from what I successfully did in a previous workout for that lift in particular. The only problem I have with squats is that my shoulders are uneven, but I do not think this would apply to you.

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