Healing a herniated disc

jtota · Joined: 12 Nov 2007 Posts: 152 Location:

I have followed Marjolein on lighter living and qvc for many years. I have a reformer and have always loved doing pilates. However, life always pulls me away for one reason or another and I've never truly committed to it.
Most recently I stopped my pilates in favor of more aggressive weight training and high impact aerobics and running. I had a big event coming up and all that mattered was how quickly I reached my goals. Anyway, now I am paying the price. I have developed a cervical disc herniation at the c6-7 level and have just been scheduled for surgery.
I am very scared about the possible consequences of the surgery and I have been given no guarantees that it will even work to relieve my pain. I have been dealing with this for a year now and I just want some relief. Has anyone out there ever used pilates for this type of injury? If so, do you feel that pilates (and maybe even some yoga) combined with physical therapy could help heal the problem without surgery?
I have an opportunity to decrease my work hours and really focus on getting better, but it seems like everyone is urging me to just have the surgery. Any advice you could give would be much appreciated.

sheista · Joined: 28 Apr 2009 Posts: 559 Location:

I have not had this experience but I wanted to wish you well.
Not fully knowing what your situation is, it is hard to say. But, I would always choose the opportunity of time and taking care of myself rather than surgery.
I am sure it is not an easy decision. Good luck !

Beaglesmom · Joined: 08 Apr 2006 Posts: 54 Location:

Good luck with your surgery. You're in my prayers.

Sharon

nyliram · Joined: 02 Jan 2012 Posts: 2 Location:

I'm sorry to hear your problems. I came upon pilates some years ago after suffering a slipped disc, with sciatica etc. after much physio I was advised I may have to have an operation as I wasn't getting anywhere. I was given acupuncture which turned a corner for me. When my physio got the pain back in my back instead of my leg, she advised pilates. This worked so well I invested in Marjoleins reformer. Since then I have done 20 min basic work out plus, 3 x weekly. This has saved my life. I play vigorous tennis 4 x weekly, and am very active. I also have Marjoleins back magic which i also use to stretch my spine. I have had 2 or 3 relapses over the years as I forget I have a bad back and lift & twist very heavy suitcases & things. So in answer to your query, Pilates definitely saved my back. I hope it does the same for you too. Good luck :)