Post sciatica activities

  If an MRI confirms a herniated disc, can/should the individual still participate
  in such activities as backpacking/hiking, racquetball, skiing(x-country and downhill),
  dancing?  
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Thanks for the question. As you can imagine without seeing you or your films this is a very difficult question to answer. If the disc is in the cervical region then risk of injury with these activities is increased. If it is in the lumbar spine then the risk is less but difficult to quantitate. The biggest risk for many of these activities are related to falls, so with downhill skiing it is the risk of falls that is your biggest problem. In general low impact activities that do not put alot of strain on your back are best. You really need to discuss this with your doctor though.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes. Please consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.