Is It Ok To Run With A Slipped Disc

Running with a slipped disc can be incredibly daunting and confusing. You may be wondering if it’s even safe at all to run with a slipped disc. The answer depends on the severity of your slipped disc and how it will affect your running form. In this article, we will discuss whether or not it is ok to run with a slipped disc and what precautions should be taken. We’ll also go into detail about the benefits of running and how to make sure you’re running safely and without exacerbating the injury.

What Is A Slipped Disc

A slipped disc, otherwise known as a herniated or prolapsed disc, is a condition that occurs when the outer layer of an intervertebral disc breaks down and allows a portion of the inner core to protrude. This often happens in the lower back area, but can also occur in the neck or upper spine. It is typically caused by a combination of degenerative changes that occur as part of the natural aging process, as well as physical activities that put extra strain on the spine, such as heavy lifting or excessive sustained postures.

When a disc slips out of place, it can cause small pieces of the disc to interfere with nearby nerve roots, resulting in pain, tingling, numbness, and/or weakness in the affected area. Additionally, if a disc slips out of place too far, it can push on the spinal cord, causing more significant side effects. Symptoms of this include loss of sensation, decrease in strength, and even incontinence.

To diagnose a slipped disc, a medical professional will typically conduct a physical exam and imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. Once diagnosed, treatment options can include rest, physical therapy, medications, injections, and in more extreme cases, surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the type of slipped disc, and the underlying causes.

It is important to seek professional medical help if you suspect a slipped disc, as the condition can lead to more serious complications if not treated properly. Ignoring the symptoms may also lead to the problem becoming worse over time. Furthermore, in order to help manage the condition and prevent future incidents, it is important to exercise regularly and maintain a healthy lifestyle, as this can reduce the strain put on the spine.

Is It Ok To Run With A Slipped Disc

When it comes to running with a slipped disc, there are some important considerations. First and foremost, it’s important to seek medical guidance. A doctor can assess the severity of the slipped disc and make recommendations on the best course of treatment. This can involve rest, medications, rehabilitative exercises, or surgery.

If running is deemed safe, it’s important to understand that with the condition, the back is more vulnerable than usual. Proper warm-up and cool-down exercises can help to avoid exacerbating the injury. Shoes with ample support, such as running shoes with cushioning, are also important to help protect the back. When running, use a slower pace to start—avoid sprinting or aggressive accelerations/decelerations.

It’s also important to understand that running should be limited to a certain amount of time and intensity. If at any point during a run there is increased pain in the area of the slipped disc, it’s important to stop the activity and rest.

Lastly, it’s important to create an overall plan that includes other forms of exercise and physical activity. Adding activities like walking, swimming, and strengthening exercises can help to build strength in the back and reduce the risk of further injury.

In summary, running with a slipped disc is a topic that should be discussed with a doctor. All cases are unique and require individualized plans. Despite the injury, exercise can still play an important role in maintaining strength and overall health.

Exercises You Can Do With A Slipped Disc

For those of us who have suffered from a slipped disc, the prospect of exercising again can be daunting. But it doesn’t have to be! With the right exercises and proper advice from your doctor, you can start to exercise again and ease your way back into the routine. Here are a few exercises you can do with a slipped disc:

1. Brace Stretches. Braces are a great aid for those recovering from a slipped disc as they provide gentle support and stability. And with the help of your doctor, you can use them to perform basic stretches that help loosen tight muscles and alleviate some of the pain.

2. Core Exercises. Core exercises like planks, bridge pose and superman help strengthen your abdominal muscles, reducing strain on your back and relieving some of the pressure on your slipped disc. They should be performed in sets of 10 and done regularly to best benefit your body.

3. Yoga. Both restorative and yin yoga postures help increase flexibility in the back, relax your body and gently mobilize the joints. Plus, the mindfulness of the practice can better manage any lingering pain or discomfort from the slipped disc.

4. Walking. Walking is an excellent way to improve circulation, encourage blood flow and strengthen your lower back muscles. Start out slow with short distances and then progress further as you build strength.

5. Stationary Bike. Stationary bike riding provides a low impact approach to exercising that puts minimal pressure on the spine, allowing for the exercises to be done safely and with minimal risk of irritation.

These are just a few of the exercises you can do with a slipped disc. Speak to your doctor to ensure that whatever exercise you choose is right for you and your body.