I got an MRI today and finally found out why I been having lower back pain and weakness in my left leg.I have a herniated disc.Im not sure how I got it,I dont lift weights or anything.Maybe I got it from playin basketball.
Does anyone know any exercises I can do to help strengthen my back and help my herniated disc heal faster?
A herniated disc is not a muscular problem and is not related to core stability. Therefore, “strengthening” is not only ineffective for short term relief, but there is no physiological reason to do it. Rather, a series of movements and or positioning that seek to restore the joint to a normalized position are usually called for.
Herniations can come from a variety of things such as bending and lifting, but most commonly comes from prolonged sitting. About 90% of my clients cannot recall any specific event that lead to their symptoms.
There is not one specific movement that is meant for everyone, rather your regemine should be based on the results of a thorough mechanical evaluation by a physical therapist, MD or DC. I highly recommend a course of treatment by a certified provider (most likely a PT) and you can find one at: http://www.mckenziemdt.org Most of the time, treatment is very simple and brief taking 6 visits or less, but the evaluation is the key to determining your appropriate response.
Good luck, and please, check out the site.