Slipped Disc(L4-L5) and martial arts

[jvtweek]

I am a 28 year old male and I am currently practicing Tae Kwon Do. I have a slipped disc (L4-L5). However I started a year ago and at the beginning of my martial arts practice my lower back went out on me. I was out for several months and I was doing extensive chiropractic work. It helps out quite a bit. However this past Thursday 17th, I had a heavier workout than normal. I am still doing chiropractice work once a week. I also stretch 20 min before class and 10 - 15 min after class. I felt great all the way up to about 1:00pm the next day. It began to stiffen up and got really sore. Finally about 7:00 pm it finally went out. I tried stretching my back but I could not get the pain out. I have put ice and heat on it and still it is very sore and stiff. I dont want to have to quit martial arts and if there are books or any advice I am eagerly willing to listen and try just about anything. Also I was not sure if there are other people who have the same type of problems as I have. It is an annoying problem. Please Help. Thanks

[mmeloon]

Finally about 7:00 pm it finally went out. I tried stretching my back but I could not get the pain out. I have put ice and heat on it and still it is very sore and stiff. I dont want to have to quit martial arts and if there are books or any advice I am eagerly willing to listen and try just about anything. Also I was not sure if there are other people who have the same type of problems as I have.

tvtweek, if you are willing to try just about anything then I would suggest trying a new doctor or taking some time off to let yourself heal completely. Based on the level of pain you are describing, I would also recommend against trying to heal yourself using information you get on the internet or even some books. Your body is very important -- don't put the job of repairing it in the hands of amateurs (i.e., you). Go see a professional. Mr. Kurz is especially fond of practioners of applied kinesology. That would be a good place to start if your chiropractor can't seem to fix you up.

I know you don't want to stop your martial arts but if you don't get this thing fixed you may end up with an injury that will force you to stop for good. Sometimes you have to look at things with the Big Picture in mind.

Good luck and I hope you can heal quickly,
-Mark