Bulging Disc

[Matt Toupalik]

I want to get some opinions on some information I recieved from my doctor.I sustained an injury 5 years ago from lifting heavy furniture while working for a movinh company.I was initially told that it was muscular.After 5 years of on again-off again pain and discomfort, I went to get an MRI.It revealed a bulging disc in the L4-L5 region.The doctor says that I need a minimum of 6-8 weeks to let it heal before resuming training.However, he said that I have no future in lifting anything heavier than 50-100 pounds.Here is the first question:Is he covering his ass by recommending that I abstain from resuming weight training?I've know people who have herniated discs, healed up, then resumed lifting with only minor discomfort.I don't understand.

Second question.I would still like to pursue an amateur boxing career.This doctor states that due to all the movements required by boxing, I could easily injure myself if I continue.Does anyone have any evidence to refute this claim?

I'd really appreciate responses from people who are knowledgeable on this subject or have experienced bulging discs and their after effects.Thank you.

Matt Toupalik

[russ]

However, he said that I have no future in lifting anything heavier than 50-100 pounds.Here is the first question:Is he covering his ass by recommending that I abstain from resuming weight training?

Basically, yes. If he says it's OK to lift, and you go on to injure yourself more seriously while lifting, he might have to worry about being taken to court. Is he a GP or a sports medicine physician? GP's tend to be less experienced with how injuries affect athletic pursuits whereas sports med guys tend to be more aggressive in getting you back into action.

I've know people who have herniated discs, healed up, then resumed lifting with only minor discomfort.I don't understand.

Find a good physiotherapist if you can. They can be helpful in this regard.

Second question.I would still like to pursue an amateur boxing career.This doctor states that due to all the movements required by boxing, I could easily injure myself if I continue.Does anyone have any evidence to refute this claim?

The claim he's making is pretty general. He's stayed on pretty safe ground in that you could re-injure yourself in just about any athletic endeavour. It's a matter of whether or not you're willing to take that chance.

I'd really appreciate responses from people who are knowledgeable on this subject or have experienced bulging discs and their after effects.

I have 2 herniated discs in my neck. I've experienced symptoms related to them from time to time, but not enought o cause me to quit what I'm doing. I accept that it is a long term problem for me, though, and they may eventually force me to shut down some of what I do.

[Matt Toupalik]

Thank you for the response, russ.Some very helpful information.I'm looking now for a good physiotherapist in my area.I think that will help a lot.Thanks.