Any swimmers with degenerative disc disease?

Former Member
Former Member
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.
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  • Former Member
    Former Member
    I have degenerative disc disease in L3 and L5, along with spinal stenosis. My doctor says swimming is fine. I also hang on a noodle before or after practice in the deep end and this lenthens my spine (put weights on your ankles and its even better). That really helps my back feel better.
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  • Former Member
    Former Member
    I have degenerative disc disease in L3 and L5, along with spinal stenosis. My doctor says swimming is fine. I also hang on a noodle before or after practice in the deep end and this lenthens my spine (put weights on your ankles and its even better). That really helps my back feel better.
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