prolapsed disc

[Jaquta]

How long after having a prolapsed lumbar disc is it safe to resume running?
I wanted to get back into running and have started with some shorter, gentle runs.  After my runs I was getting some sciatic symptoms.  Today I experienced back pain during the run.  I'm just wondering how long it is likely to take to recover and whether with rest, etc these symptoms will resolve.  Or I am always likely to have this pain when running/ exercising?

[gymdandee]

Have you seen a doctor? All I can tell you is the pounding from running is just going to make things worse! You can exercise and try building your core muscles try doing an elliptical,
speed walking and high intensity biking. I had to give up running after having both knees replaced and two herniated disc's the running and sprinting did me in.  

[deadgamegrrl]

What surface are you running on?  Try to stick to soft surfaces like a treadmill at first to minimize the impact to your body. Also, if you aren't doing so, work on increasing your core strength.  The stronger your core is, the more support your lumbar spine will have.
Good luck!

[Jaquta]

I'm seeing my doctor again next week.  He's pretty blase about the whole thing.  You know, it's not his back and he can still exercise.
I might have to do some cross-training.  I'm desperate to do an event next year and feel so frustrated by this limitation (although in the long-term it is definitely more advisable to allow it to heal).
I'm sorry you had to give up your running and sprinting.

I've been running on the road.  So on tar seal.  I don't really have access to a treadmill and I can't afford to travel to the local park/ forest.  I live on a farm which would be ideal but the land is hilly (and before this happened I was told to avoid those).

It's good advice about working to strengthen core muscles.

Thanks for all the feedback.  I hope I can better manage this and continue doing something that I enjoy.

[Dr Arora]

Hi, patients with prolapsed disc are recommended to continue their normal activities like day to day routine work. The only exception to this is severe pain limiting any activity. As far as running is concerned, it may aggravate the symptoms but walking is definitely good. You may try brisk walking in place of running, is that suits you without pain. This is a chronic and long-term problem actually and you never know when it is going to return back. You have to modify your lifestyle a little bit according to your suitability.
Also, look to learn some new exercises more suitable for patients with disc prolapse. All the best.

[Jaquta]

Thank you for your feedback.