Simple question: What are the effects of the kind of swimming we do on DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE.
I'm nearly pain free. My C7-C6 herniation, while debilitating a few weeks ago, is only causing minor numbness and tingling in my right hand.
I cannot, for the life of me, find a competent medical authority, definitive research, or a firsthand account of how 2000-3000 yard workouts, including intervals and distance training, effect the cervical spine.
Yeah, yeah, I know that I allegedly "twist my neck" when I swim, but I also know that proper stroke technique includes rolling one's body rather than turning one's head to breath.
But my C6-C7 disc took my right arm out of commission for a while. It seems to be getting stronger. Will I ever get it back?
I want to get back in the water and start swimming soon. I was supposed to do an Alcatraz swim a couple weeks ago, and I want to do it next year. After a month off, I should start training now.
Before I started swimming, I had lower back pain that virtually disappeared when took up the sport. That was two years ago. I just can't seem to get an answer as to whether I should be swimming, or if I should not be swimming.
Thank you.
Parents
Former Member
I don't believe swimming hurts it. That is my OPINION only. Don't get surgery unless necessary, my first was not and I have paid the price for it due to an overly aggressive doctor. Just listen to your body, if it is exaggerating the pain when you swim, stop. You will get back to where you were if you give the disc time to heal and the inflamation goes down. Just don't go mental over it, that will only make it worse. If you want to read something that might help, read "Healing Back Pain", by Dr. John Sarno. He also has some videos that go with it that are excellent. It will open your eyes on how so often the real reason for spinal problems goes misdiagnosed. You can find him on the web.
I don't believe swimming hurts it. That is my OPINION only. Don't get surgery unless necessary, my first was not and I have paid the price for it due to an overly aggressive doctor. Just listen to your body, if it is exaggerating the pain when you swim, stop. You will get back to where you were if you give the disc time to heal and the inflamation goes down. Just don't go mental over it, that will only make it worse. If you want to read something that might help, read "Healing Back Pain", by Dr. John Sarno. He also has some videos that go with it that are excellent. It will open your eyes on how so often the real reason for spinal problems goes misdiagnosed. You can find him on the web.
