Working out after back surgery

Has anyone out there had back surgery and got back into working out? If so, what ways have people found success? Which excersises, how to lift etc. I had a microdiscectomy 3 years ago now and have gained a bit of weight so I am looking to get back into shape. Thanks!

Replies

  • Stellamom2018
    Stellamom2018 Posts: 120 Member
    I am an occupational therapist that sees many back patients.

    I would check with your physician to make sure you do not have any restrictions before beginning. Other then that, just follow what your body tells you. If there is pain then you need to stop. Pain is NOT gain. Discomfort and soreness, yes, but not pain.

    Do you have residual side effects? Pain? Numbness or tingling in lower extremities?
  • SSpeakes
    SSpeakes Posts: 95 Member
    I had a micro in January 2017. I found a trainer and explained to him my issues and began working with him May 2017. He understood and came up with a program to help strengthen my back. Now, admittedly i pushed too hard and had to go back for injections. However, I've not had any issues since November. I still have some herniated discs but these aren't hitting the nerve so are not affecting me in any way. Over a year later and I can do anything I want with no limitations. I'm even deadlifting with no issues.

    Go slow and listen to your body. If you can, get a trainer to help guide you.
  • kbmnurse1
    kbmnurse1 Posts: 316 Member
    Check with your MD.
  • mendezmario1981
    mendezmario1981 Posts: 2 Member
    I am an occupational therapist that sees many back patients.

    I would check with your physician to make sure you do not have any restrictions before beginning. Other then that, just follow what your body tells you. If there is pain then you need to stop. Pain is NOT gain. Discomfort and soreness, yes, but not pain.

    Do you have residual side effects? Pain? Numbness or tingling in lower extremities?

    Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I do have some pain in my lower back but the pain down my leg is compleatly gone. I do get a little tingling on my surgery side but nowhere as near what it use to be.
  • doceo
    doceo Posts: 46 Member
    Hey Mendezmario!
    I just had L5-S1 back surgery and I'm hoping to head back to they gym soon. I've been in pain for 6 months and unable to work out at all, so I feel as if I lost all the gains i had before. Once I'm released, I still have 5 personal training sessions and I want those to focus on what I can and what I can't do.


    Let me know how you progress.