Bulging disk in lower back?
A bulging disk is the same as a ruptured disk which means it is loosing the fluid that gives the disk its cushion like affect. I have 2 of them and as long as they do not impinge on a nerve surgery can be avoided. In fact–with the right exercise you can actually shrink the disk back into place. Avoid lifting over 20lbs, bending over at the waist to pick things up (squat down instead), and avoid smoking. I am not surprised your doctor didnt give further instructions as most simply dont know what to do with PTs with chronic back pain. You need to see physical therapy as they will give you strengthening exercises that will help the disk shrink. Water is about the best one around–simply walking in a pool gives gentle resistance. The pain causes us to become less active which in turn caues more pain —thats why being a pool works so well. Your doctor didnt mention an ESI? It is a shot of cortizone into the area and really works well. I get about a year from each shot–a yr of no pain. Im
