Back Pain + Lifting (Herniated & Bulging Disc Recovery)

[@SquatUniversity]

The #SquatUclub is now on KZbin! As soon as I upload a new video, "like" it and comment with the hashtag #SquatUclub ASAP. I'll pick amongst those who do so within 1 hour of the video going live and pick one winner to start working on whatever you need help with (squat technique, an achy hip, help with back pain during deadlifts, etc). You must be SUBSCRIBED to my KZbin channel for a chance to win. Turning on notifications by clicking the little bell next to the SUBSCRIBE button on my channel will make sure you can be first in line to win every time! I’ll reply under the winners comment - so make sure you keep up on your notifications!

[@ryantmorgan91]

Do you have a disc buldge?

[@SquatUniversity]

Likely yes, I've had a few back injuries in my lifetime. However, I've never had an MRI on my lower back to investigate.

[@SquatUniversity]

This videos winner is: Baruch Rosenstark

[@manimagic3779]

Please can you tell me if I should treat a mid back bulging disc the same way by doing the McGill exercises? If not, please do a video on how to treat a mid back bulging disc. I've tried doing McGill but the glute bridge exercise causes pain so I quit doing it

[@manuelbergmann9222]

My MRI shows two discs with "flat protrusion" - is that the same as a bulging disc? I have low back pain which radiates down my leg and nobody knows why. It's just very little normally but get's painful after lifting. Can I still apply the gist of this video, which is doing core stability training as you show in kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJDIZXxjl9eZp9U ?

[@pauljennings1466]

After 30 years of 'back issues' that's the very best explanation and demonstration I've ever heard. Really appreciate it. This is my first time on your channel so gonna dive in now and see what else I can learn.

[@jdsbkotevjk]

howd it go paul

[@matterafact]

He is the best Especially for us average Joe’s

[@nicholecruz17]

Just wow! I absolutely wish more Physical Therapists would explain the disc bulge in this fashion. I'm a lifelong athlete recovering from an auto accident. I've seen several PTs and they never address me as an athlete and my specific needs nor do they explain the issue as you do. Thank you!

[@adramp33]

Had a building disc 10 years ago at age 30. Just set PRs this week at 40. #squatuclub

[@SquatUniversity]

That's so great to hear you're doing so well! Keep up the great work!

[@Who-cu9eu]

I’ve got a buldging disk and I’m only 21 it sucks and I can’t even get a job

[@whatevervideos542635]

Shane Edwards ive been there many of times. I’d recommend purchasing the supple leopard by kelly starett life saving book as well as buying his video series on low back pain at his website the ready state

[@sabinabastola8371]

adramp33 how did u recoverd when u had?? How long it took?

[@marttyd]

What are PR’s? Getting over herniated disc and am afraid to go back to the gym.

[@Drstephenstokes]

These micro movements are the “key” to understanding chronic low back pain in many people. I have seen many failures when only using traction unless this micro movement is addressed. Great video and nice positive message.

[@kadijaish]

I am finally feeling better after a year of recovery after squat back injury. I am happy with lighter goblet squats and McGill Big 3 and other easy exercises. I don't even have the courage to think to lift heavy again. It is just not worth the risk for recreational lifter. I will stay at 30% and that is it

[@pacmar7919]

What other exercises? Many thanks.

[@johnschmidt7688]

Thank you so much Doc! I have been following the McGill method for a while now due to a back injury in April 2020. I have been creating the stiffness required for lifting again. Seems to be a very slow process for me. I tried lifting very light again this week but experienced a tight low back and nerve pain in my legs the following day. The explanation on the injury cascade is spot on. I have been struggling with not lifting and got impatient. Now I have the knowledge as to why I had the pain... insufficient stiffness around the injured joint. I will continue with the rehab process and return to lifting when my body is ready. Thanks again.

[@User76372]

Couldn't have summed up my situation any closer lol

[@elimancilla]

What was your problem exact? Bulged disc or herniated discs? And what treatments did you do ? Please share what helped you. I have herniated discs and will start tomorow with a chriropractic and its too expensive😭

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

@@elimancilla How are you now Eli ?

[@elimancilla]

@@AdityaGupta-xq3kr hellooo there. Km now sooo much better if not completly healed thank god🙏🏽 i thought i was never going to be normal again but i feel good now. I basically just fasted for 18hrs. And ate clean. I walked a lot. I got sunlight. And i never stoped moving. I did movements and stretches carefully and what i found helpul i stick to those. The best excercices ypu could do are pranks for the core.

[@adityalotankar4306]

​@@elimancilla Hey Eli! Were you fasting everyday for 18 hrs?

[@pamkenyon4994]

Wow! I’ve had 2 MRIs and seen many chiropractors/ orthopedics and not one explained what was happening to my lower back. Thank you!!

[@pieraldomarchegiani2970]

I just wanted to extend a huge thank you man. I really needed to hear that around 30% of 30 y.o. have some sort of disc bulges and that they heal. Starting PT tomorrow and I will keep an eye out for stabilizing movements

[@sarathkumarpc244]

Hats off Dr. you are the only one to cover this topic the proper way.

[@LaxmanSingh-xc2by]

Aron can u create on how to execute exercises with back pain and especially bulging disc means discuss how one can workout with those pain

[@SquatUniversity]

I'll see what I can put together! Thanks for the suggestion.

[@emaddarawsheh7420]

@@SquatUniversity ....please do

[@ramandeepsinghsaini1579]

Please do that

[@poojabajaj5585]

@@SquatUniversity pls do that

[@jimb4366]

@@SquatUniversity is it possible to come back from an injury and deadlift heavy again pain free? That’s the boat I’m currently in trying to get back to where I was pain free

[@7266jp]

Great content! Most people will end up with a disc bulge at one point or another in their lives. Some will present with symptoms while others won’t . I feel it is vital to keep the core tight during hinging and squatting movement patterns regardless if there is a history of a disc bulge or not.

[@bmarchbanks7661]

The core is everything

[@neitherhereorthere7131]

Just for the record people especially uneducated and new to herniated discs in lower back L3/4/5, DON’T do dead lifts or any weight lifting until you’ve been thoroughly assessed by a professional. You work doing therapy to help the disc heal not cause more harm. This could take a weeks to months if not a year to heal. Follow the program your given by your physiotherapist. Don’t lift weight or bed forward whilst injured.

[@davecounsell9931]

As always a great video, this has helped as I’m in early stages of recovery from L4-L5 disc bulge, thank you

[@imfren]

Hello I’m also in early stages of disc bulge recovery, how can I contact you I have some questions

[@kailashlimbu7046]

@@imfren did u recover ?? any info

[@DexterMorgan-sd4jx]

Any of you have sciatica pain?

[@imfren]

@@kailashlimbu7046yes I’m doing way better than before, going to the gym again

[@sonyjumper111]

How have you been?

[@xjr1618x]

Now, we need a stability exercise program for those of us with disc problems, back surgery etc that would be fantastic! Thanks!

[@SquatUniversity]

You're welcome - have you checked out my last video on the McGill Big 3?

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

Do you got it ? Where can I find it?

[@donspradley6912]

Dr. Aaron I have been lifting for decades and crossfitting for almost 7 years and this message speaks directly to me! I have delt with the bulge/pinched nerve and also have the facets joint problem! I have never heard this spoken so accurate and clear and you have given me hope! Thank you for the video and hope to see more soon or even better if you could work with me on rehab 💪🏽💪🏽 #SquatUclub

[@SquatUniversity]

You're so welcome Don! I really appreciate your comment - I'm glad you're enjoying the content so much!

[@tommyhappenstoliftalot4198]

Wow, someone who does Crossfit got hurt. No surprise there.

[@Thetrismonway]

Don, with the injury have you decided to continue doing crossfit and compound lifts like deadlift and back squats? I am considering taking them out and switching them for other exercises. For example, hack squat instead of back squat.

[@ameli950514]

Very good explanation but I was left wanting something more, it seems like it was a great set up for a bit of practical advice #squatuclub

[@SquatUniversity]

Thanks for the comment, I'll see what I can do next time to go a little more in depth for you on the practical side of things.

[@marciwalters5034]

@@SquatUniversity I wanted you to show how to lift correctly!

[@johnchiari531]

@@SquatUniversity exercises on how to strengthen lumbar disc stablitity and prevent further building or exacerbating of prior injury would be awesome!

[@coreyharper2643]

Couldn't tell you how grateful I am for this

[@Dynamicdiscdesigns]

We are glad to help professionals connect their knowledge to others through better spine modeling. Thank you for using our #3dmodels for #patienteducation

[@ryantmorgan91]

Do the discs in your models compress and shear with the same Force as an actual human disc ?

[@Dynamicdiscdesigns]

@@ryantmorgan91 These are models, but the general movements are, yes. You can see Dr McGill reference them as biofiidelic in many videos.

[@ackerlyshelzam3069]

Would love to hear your top few core bracing exercises. Aka drills to teach people how to brace their core or even a few favorite exercise to improve upon spine stiffness. Thanks for all you do! Love your information!!!

[@WillWinterz]

Plank. Side plank. Bird dog. Paloff press.

[@ExecutionSommaire]

@@WillWinterz I find that planks etc don't really teach you to brace while hip hinging, so I would just do squats and deadlifts with very progressive load starting from zero (not even a barbell).

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

@@ExecutionSommaire do you have herniated disc as well?

[@ExecutionSommaire]

@@AdityaGupta-xq3kr No idea, I just have days with pain in the lower back. Could be some muscle imbalance/weakness. I tend to have anterior pelvic tilt, and my lower back is weakened by years of office job.

[@smarterworkout]

if you have stenosis from a herniated disc (what I have) - absolutely do not do squats. Stenosis is serious. Do your PT exercises to fix your core. Don't think for a second that simply doing squats or crunches will fix your core. There are muscles that need specific weird exercises to get worked.

[@warrenprater6142]

Amen

[@adrianmasters250]

This was extremely helpful, now I properly understand what i'm dealing with

[@kxrsuperstar]

Herniated my back Saturday. This give me hope.

[@brettbeam1396]

How are you now?

[@kxrsuperstar]

@@brettbeam1396 💯 now. I had bilateral frontal sciatica and numbness into both feet/toes. I recovered doing the sandwich drill and the McGill big 3 process mentioned on this channel.

[@TheMyrmidon22]

This is such valuable information. Thank you, sir, for your willingness to share.

[@patrickt9864]

I came here about the back...then the music in the background had me vibing😎✊🔥had to look it up

[@patrickt9864]

@Gypsy Malonemary jane is not a drug. 2. It you don't feel the music playing yo ass aint got no rhythm or soul.

[@NWTrailSeries]

Loved this video. Love this channel. Absolutely a must follow channel for anyone who lifts weights

[@SquatUniversity]

Thank you!

[@MohitBisht]

Did 180kgs deadlift after a disc herniation and unbearable pain for 3 years. Now starting with squats slowly. Goal is to hit 140kgs but will be super patient with sex form

[@differentvoices6241]

Lair

[@differentvoices6241]

Y do u lie dudee

[@riprep8496]

this specific information isn't talked about enough

[@lessdatesmoreonmyplates1457]

Man we humans evolved like absolute sh... when it comes to our spines

[@thegreatbenis225]

when I squat, deadlift and even bend over row my back is in serious pain and its been like this for ever. If I do a moderate workout with squats I i wont be able to walk for a day. its like when you bull something in your back. I have perfect form when doing my lifts. It doesnt even matter how much wieght I use. Anything over 250 which is nothing for me will bring me agony for a day if I do even close to failure. I avoid anything that but load onto my back, I personally dont think the reward is there for me. I have a high pain tolerance but when it comes to my spine its a whole different beast

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

Do you have l5s1 herniated discs? Don't you worry the herniation would be aggravated if put under compression ? Do you have constant pain like 24×7 or its just during workouts? I just wanted to live normal life pain free . Any thoughts?

[@DJ-bo4pz]

I had an injury last year, I had been doing the Mcgill big 3, and I had fully recovered from the injury or so I thought. Today I did RDLs with perfect form - bracing the core and everything dr. aaron suggested. But after the lift I was keeping the empty bar back and felt the “shock” and I told to myself REALLLYY!!??? an empty bar😭😭. I am so scared to overload any of the deadlifts anymore, if this could happen after the lift I dont even want to do it anymore.

[@ozzy6162]

It's hard to rehab your spine correctly if you don't know the full extent of the damage to the structures of your spine - and this is often difficult to say for sure even using MRI. Also if the problem has a neuropathic pain component then no amount of rehab will get you relatively pain free and lifting again.

[@Mrtunneling]

Great video Aaron, just wanted to run this by you. 2 days ago I worked up to a decent high bar back squat single @9.5RPE. I made this lift and have every confidence that I could hit it, however after a really good descent and reversal, I felt my a tightening sensation, like a rope being pulled taut in my right lower back region, right at my sticking point. I finished the lift. I've felt a similar thing last year, however not from a single rep, and did a really nice pull pull stretch while in the 90/90 position. This really helped me in the past and stopped the spasm from continuing. I checked the video of my squat and it seemed that in my desire to bring my hips under the bar to maximize my quad drive out of the hole, my pelvis tucked into posterior pelvic tilt. It's a barely noticeable tuck but I reckon that some lower back stabilizer just went taut as a defense mechanism. So getting to the point, I've always braced and feel really good about my technique, 360 degree, creating a tonne of stiffness in the process but I've never really focused on keeping my low back in extension. Do you think one should actively provide an extension force in the low back to prevent the natural rounding that may happen as the hips are brought back under the bar in the ascent of the squat. How do you feel about active extension of the low back, generally as it applies to strength training? I've heard Mike Israetel commenting on extension ( in the squat) being inherently safer but then I'm worried that in my focus on slight/active extension, I'll lose some ab/anterior tension. Have you come across this pelvis tucking under high loads as one brings their hips under the bar? Hope this finds you well.

[@CrysFelicies]

My herniated disc bothered me since 2016 until today because Allergies can be violent. I guess I should be grateful that while it hurts, I can walk, albeit a funky looking walk.

[@beanson5506]

haven’t lifted in 8 months and have to sit out of my senior season of football, hope this helps

[@johnnymendes5254]

Thanks for the feedback. I was afraid to not be able anymore to lift

[@lloydp8801]

You are really a life saver Dr.Aron!! Can you maker a video about 'disc protrusion'? Several doctor(of the hospital)told me that my L4-L5 dics protrusion is much worse than a disc bulge, and I should not lift heavy weight or even golfling for the rest of life... and that is really the end of my world... Is there any chance I can recovery to a level that allow me to workout again?

[@elimancilla]

How are you doing lloyd? Were you able to heal?? Im in severe pain with my back and i have herniated disc

[@lloydp8801]

@@elimancillaI'm getting better! I highly recommend this book Hope you get well soon!!

[@petruccilewis]

Great video, I am currently dealing with this and I had recently that I needed to improve my bracing, everything makes sense now

[@IHACKER316]

Great video , Would love to hear more on recommended rehab , I have nerve pain that won't go away

[@ChingAbaygar]

Thanks for giving me hope.

[@thorwannabe6810]

Your videos have been very helpful for my disc bulge thank you

[@manimagic3779]

Pleaseee do a video on how to fix bulging discs in the thoracic spine area

[@manimagic3779]

Please do a video on how to deal with a mid back bulging disc

[@robbyterrill5707]

When my L5 finally herniated..It was the worst un Godly pain ive ever felt..Took me a year to rehab after surgery..I havent had over 200 lbs on my back since...A part of my life was instantly taken away.. I lived with bulges for yrs doing Front Squats with 400 lbs and bent rows with 300 plus lbs...Id love to Squat again but that fear of all that pain stops me...

[@Y2Kr4SHM4N]

Jesus, your post terrifies me.

[@bumblebower1529]

Yeah man I’ve delt with a herniated and bulging disc for 5 months left leg barley supporting me very weak hurts 24/7 hurts to walk sit lay down sleep bend over anything but I’ve had back pain for 4 years I get epedourel shots in a few weeks and if they don’t help me I’m told I’ll have to get surgery but I prob won’t no matter what

[@bch5513]

I feel your pain man. I had one microdiscectomy and worked through the pain and stayed in shape for 6 years and then bent over to pick up something off ground and pop.. . But no pain. Huh. Hope that wasn’t bad. No pain for 10 min. then I hopped in truck and I about wrecked it backing up when pain set in. leg went dead.. couldn’t get out. Right in height of COVID.. couldn’t get surgery for 10 days. Have permanent nerve damage now. I workout every day . Tilt table is your friend! Do decompression daily. A fusion is inevitable as I am only 40. Do your best not end up like me by being careful. It ain’t worth it.

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

@@bumblebower1529 how are you now bro

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

@@bch5513 I'm only 18 and I have l5s1 herniated disc 😭😭😭

[@santiagoperman3804]

What I would like is a set of recommendations to strengthen the discs BEFORE herniations.

[@bakiraitkulov6901]

Finally I would be able to enjoy DOMs from squatting again.

[@justanothercreator7273]

did this 3 years ago...went to physio when pain reduced...last 2.5 years pain free, and continued training...correct lifting technique..very careful, but also you have to bend in life right?....anyway, happened again last month, no idea how or why...back to square one after bulletproofing my back,hips,quads,calves,hamstrings...so why did it happen again?? shows strength isnt the answer hey...it MAY help.....but it can still be injured...sorry if sounds negative, but when you have been on the journey and learned everything there is to know about the problem and the training required to have it happen again, and all you see or hear online or from physios is strengthen, strengthen, strengthen, and you have........It still isnt a guarantee unfortunatley

[@dannyspitzer1267]

Seems like back injuries are inevitable (or there is a high probability of one occurring) in the long run in this game. With all of the forces of the weights, just being a little bit off with bracing, or a little bit off with the spine being in neutral and you are on your way to spinal problems as the years and decades go by. Point is, most people don't have picture perfect form 100 percent of the time, each workout, each rep, year after year after year....

[@mindebrolis9582]

Great explanation. 4 years After disc surgery deadlifting in a great form (my phisio standing next to me). Bracing abs and shit. Built up from 20kg over a year to 80kg weight (myselff at 88kg). Result? Another bulged disc. Fck the deadlifts and anyone who encourages doing deadlifts with a back injury.

[@ccgmail8025]

I guess the question is would you have gotten another bulged disc deadlifting say 60kg and setting that as a cap ? 60kg is a lot when you think about functional everyday strength. Myself I limit deadlifts now to 50kgs because I don't see myself ever needing to lift more than that in life. But I hope you get better and can hit the gym again.

[@OXY187]

​@@ccgmail8025 the doc told me that it's ok to lift, but do not go heavy. If you go heavy, you'll end up breaking your spine.

[@bilaljafar359]

Simply Amazing! 🙏 Having watched over a thousand + videos regarding herniated disc and recovery, never did I learn that even if your disc recovers, your facet joints might take the brunt of your most movments and can develop their own problems. Would the stressed ligaments/facets then become very tender to touch in comparison to rest healthy ones ? Can this problem appear on a MRI?

[@bilaljafar359]

#SquatUclub

[@wonder_life_]

Thanks a lot for your videos! I find them very educative. I have a herniated L4-L5 disc (disc extrusion) and recoverenig for over 5 months. Now I’m doing stability exercises and deadlifts, and feeling much better. I would appriciate some advices about doing lifting with herniated disc. #SquatUClub

[@anuraggujrati6475]

Brother what u had done to recover from this L4,L5 disc plz guide I have same problem but not able to recover from lst 10 months

[@elimancilla]

@@anuraggujrati6475 how are you doing now Anurag? Hope you were able to heal your discs? Im going thru the same situation its horrible i cant walk sit or bent or stand without deep pain.

[@pengleball350]

Hey, do you still have pain today?

[@joshuavolker2083]

Any news ? Recovering since 1 year and still I. Pain

[@whatevervideos542635]

This video I still come back to. I have a bad L5-S1 disc herniation I got years ago. I’ve been doing very well and back in the gym however, I notice when I stop my core stability exercises, the pain starts creeping back. At first I thought it was joint pain from maybe too much extension on accident in some movements when I’m really trying to prevent my back from rounding (rounded back under loaded squat caused herniation in the first place) but it sounds like I still need to work on my core stability daily in my training indefinitely to make sure this doesn’t come back. I suppose then I could be feeling isolated faucet joint pain? 🤔 mobilization of my lower back doesn’t seem to help it so this video seems spot on about emphasis on stability completely

[@kruzedarling9347]

What are you favorite core exercises?

[@franklywaved8987]

Yes everyone watching has the problem what’s the solution??

[@debbiebansal1134]

Hi this is very knowledgeable information that is given by squat club. Left me wanting more exercises to follow by video. Thank you 👍👍👍

[@GILane]

This is encouraging. Thank you.

[@facundozapata7364]

Great timing. Thanks

[@SquatUniversity]

You're welcome!

[@EdaBoztosun]

I have been dealing with back pain for a few weeks now. I first thought it was due to overextention/lumbarlordosis and i thoutht i should engage my core more. With the purpose of contracting my abdominal muscles better i think i created so called “butt wink” and after a few days of leg training my pain was much worse. Now i understand what the problem was.. I am just having problem to understand how to stiffen my core while not rotating my pelvis to front. It will take some practice

[@cordellweir9963]

Great introduction to micro-movement/instability. I have lumbar disc issues and find both back squat and heavy deadlifts problematic, even though I can stabilise well. I work around the problem with variations: goblet/front/box squats; Romanian deadlifts etc. thoughts?

[@SquatUniversity]

Those are good usually if done correctly! Glad you liked this video!

[@SuperPulseadasArmwrestling]

Hi , i have a plan to rehab the back , is like this : Bulgarian squats>Globet squats>Front squats>Back squats and for deadlifts: Trap bar on blocks>Trap bar from the floor>Sumo on blocks>Sumo on the floor>Normal deadlift on blocks>Normal deadlifts from the floor .That is how Am Training rehabed his bulging disc two times!

[@SuperPulseadasArmwrestling]

That and McGill Big 3 + Spine higiene daily (delete the pain triggers that dont let desensitízing the spine until you have it with 0 pain) .I have been doing core work and spine higiene for 2 months (2 months without sitting amd lifting heavy) noe i can sit without problem and im progresivelly lifting more weight per week

[@elimancilla]

@@SuperPulseadasArmwrestling whats the spine hygiene???? Please explain

[@henrylawsky7172]

I'm 18 and I was doing a bunch of unweighted explosive deep squats and I think I had my back arched a little, kinda like the girls on instagram that want to make their butt look better, and I felt this piercing pain that was pretty sudden, I did a couple more squats and then suddenly I found it hard to move my back in any direction; hard to get on the ground, put on socks, or move at all for the first couple of days. Now its just a nagging pain 5 days later. It hurts when I, again, try to put socks on, but other than that it just feels like there's something being pinched in between 2 bones.

[@lmc3307]

@Henry Lawsky did u make a recovery ? I was benching heavy yesterday and arched too much and felt a little niggle in my lower back and then squatted heavy with no pain but a few hours later I could barely move and it’s not much better the next day

[@christopherscales2599]

This is a great video mate, great presentation and very informational!

[@kacey_donner]

Thank you so much. This video is going to save my back. That means so much.

[@cheliospanama9786]

Great Video! Thank you 🔥👏💪🫶

[@captainofthewhitetower]

Sometimes I wish I had money to go to Aaron and rehab my back.

[@dk-lifter3782]

Golden content

[@saraiday1646]

Awesome explanation!

[@addm15]

been fighting pain due to bulging disc on my lower back, specifically on the left leg since December 2019. But been working out and rehabing since January and the process is slow and painful. I've seen some relief and some improvements, but there are days where the pain flares up, maybe even weeks, but continuing to grind it. Overall goal for 2020 is to be functionally healthy and have mobility/flexibility. Not focusing on gaining muscle or losing weight necessarily but just getting back to being healthy again.

[@sabinabastola8371]

AlfredM what are u doing for that?? Exercise?? Hab u been to physio therapist ?

[@AdityaGupta-xq3kr]

@@sabinabastola8371 how about you

[@InkedUpHonda]

Thank you brother.

[@ewertsp]

Hey, I got a bad disc on l5-s1 due to some lower spine rectification and I don't have pain during squats or deadlifts. The pain comes on the next day after a deadlift session, no irradiation to legs... I feel like it's related to posterior chain muscles tightness, the pain usually goes away after warmup. Any ideas? Love the channel and the external rotation torque set up for the squat has really improved my form here. Ty!

[@SquatUniversity]

Be sure to check out this blog for a screening method to help uncover the why behind your issues: squatuniversity.com/2018/04/28/how-to-screen-your-low-back-pain/

[@ewertsp]

@@SquatUniversity hey, I've just finished the test! T1, rating pain 0-10, 4 on the way down. It was worse much worse tuesday (i did some deadlifts monday) and did some squats and hipthrust yesterday. Squats seems to fix the problem 😂. T2, very mild compression pain, I'd say it's a 1, pain goes up when rounding the back to 5 or 6. T3, no pain T4, no pain Unibridge, mild burn on spinal erectors or transverse abs, left side only. Same result on double bridge. Hip rotation, left side feels way tighter on the side of the thigh. Didn't notice travel differences. T mobility, OK, a 2 pain @ 45° to the left. By the test I have a flexion problem. What intrigues me is that I don't have pain deadlifting, only on the next day. Few weeks ago I was doing only squats, good mornings and hipthrusts, felt great, no pain whatsoever. When I go back to deadlifting, pain shows up... I'll take more time off deadlifts this time, 1 or 2 months after the pain go away and then try again. Thanks for the tips doc, great stuff you got going here!

[@mohamedgabal6333]

@@ewertsp how is your back?

[@ewertsp]

@@mohamedgabal6333 hey, my back is better than ever. I changed my form to starting strength, got a belt from dominion, lifting shoe and still on NLP. I wish my deadlift could go up as fast as my back heals lols...

[@sarahbrown8022]

YOU HAVE THE BEST VIDEOS!! Thank you so much!

[@FullChamber]

This video is amazing. I had disc bulge in 2019, c5 c6. Never wish such pain upon anyone. Now in early August 2023 i got hurt again at the same spot and it frikkin killed me lol. It took me about three weeks to heal from this agony. I believe barbell shrugs front or behind the neck tend to hurt my c5 c6. I’ll never ever do barbell shrugs again. Dumbbells only. Can heavy dumbbell shrugs with proper form help me avoid it from coming back?

[@wolfgangschmid81]

Very good Information allways, greets from germany and thanks

[@cz9101]

you are a godsend

[@rorax42]

Excelente video.

[@SquatUniversity]

Thank YOU!

[@luckyrock00]

Ahhhh-haaaaa... I keep getting a bulge in one of my lower lumbar discs, which takes me out of training for weeks due to the pain. Now not don't squat or deadlift anything over 95 lbs.. Too spooked. Will try your rehab suggestions though, thanks!

[@ZeeshanAhmed-os1lm]

If you are getting it again and again then go for surgery m only surgery can give it a permanent solution.

[@LuIz5524]

@@ZeeshanAhmed-os1lm Are you sure about that ? (I really dont know about bulging and herniated surgery,but why would you reccomend it ?)

[@flymol0]

@@LuIz5524not true. Proper PT is the best way

[@therealyanhuang]

Thanks for sharing this video. ❤️

[@sachintivrekar4494]

Very good information

[@HendersonHinchfinch]

How long can it take for these disc injuries to heal themselves? I’ve had a disc injury for almost 5 years now. It’s completely gone out on me twice to where I can’t even walk for a day or two, but most of the time it’s pretty manageable as long as I don’t lift anything too heavy in a bent over position

[@TheEightshot]

"some are very painful" understatement of the century right there, haha. Q: I have always had extremely tight hamstrings which prevent flexion at the hips (long hours desk job). I now have 2 bulging disks (1 healed 1 new L3,L4,L5). How can I improve hamstring flexibility without doing more damage, I've been advised to avoid bending forward and find exercises like leg press near impossible and squats are completely out of the question.

[@arjunwijayaratnam1986]

Do standing hamstring stretches or lay down on your back and pull on your straight leg with a band towards your body (like an L shape basically). Include strength exercises on your hamstring/hip flexors as well. Avoid any back rounding stretches :) You may never be able to do a pancake but you can get great mobility progressively. Tightness in your hamstring is not necessarily due to a lack of Mobility but weakness in your hip muscles due to sitting all day. Your hamstring have to compensate working overtime resulting in tightness. To that you can add a 10 mins lower back relief session (any sort of sciatica stretching video you can find should do). Incorporate these routines in your daily habits and you'll get better! You only have one body, take care of it :)

[@arjunwijayaratnam1986]

Also if you wanna keep lifting, avoid any machines or exercises putting stress on your lower back. Switch to front squats which are in my opinion far superior and more sustainable (no load on your spine/lower back, forces you to keep a straight back, forces you to have good form otherwise you'll drop the weight). Front squats are also a lot harder to perform (you won't be able to lift as much due to the mechanical difference in the lift).

[@M1keFury]

Thanks a lot, man , it's actual topic for me. Could you tell please, are these advices actual for herniated disc? Thanks in advance

[@SquatUniversity]

I'll see what I can put together!

[@Denilerfendi]

i wait this video, thank u

[@SquatUniversity]

You're welcome!

[@snailmailmagic]

Its my birthday and I missed the window again :'( #SquatUClub

[@k20ee96]

That was a great explanation of the problem. I am unfortunately in the this category, multiple disc injuries have now lead me to have facet joint problems. I was hoping to see some actual reccomendations for actual exercises once this occurs. I don't feel like i can or should squat at all now and get conflicting advice from different physios. Would you be able to reccomend any exercises for someone in my position?

[@SuperPulseadasArmwrestling]

Core and glute work

[@chocolatefudge5263]

I wish he would do a book with the kneesovertoesguy

[@Chrisgalin]

I did the butt wink omg! Then had a pop. Scared the hell out of me. I was only squatting 205lbs. Never been so freaked out!

[@hellfires841]

Love you videos. Doc. you didn't mention how to teach yourself stability. While I know the answer to that as I've followed you long enough, it would be good for others. And yes it's linked in the description but not everyone reads it :D

[@SquatUniversity]

Good points, I'll try to make my next video a little more comprehensive. Thanks for the comment.

[@baruchrosenstark458]

Hey Aaron great video! Very informative! Are the reebok nanos an ideal shoe for deadlifts? Or are they elevated?

[@SquatUniversity]

Thank you! And it depends on the person. I think most powerlifters will use a more flat sole shoe where as weightlifters who are doing deadlifts are doing them for the purpose of strengthening the clean and snatch pull (so they'll usually use their weightlifting shoes). So I'd say for most who aren't looking for sport specific work, a flatter sole shoe works great. Reebok nanos are a fairly flat shoe (they're maybe 3-4mm drop I believe).

[@ChingTeoh]

Hi Aaron, thank you so much for the explanation. Your channel is the most helpful among others. Beside squatting, and weight lifting I have found that I have pain in the lower back and doing a side bend to the right. Can you advise on how I should go about it? Thanks 🙏

[@Bhosadilal]

That was amazingly informative....

[@uy-ryan-huynh6934]

squat with pain free. but cant deadlift even got sciatica with light row. now i know why. STIFFNESS!!!

[@xoxoshaneandmexoxo]

Hurts so bad bc i can feel it at the same time as seeing it😭really cool tho!

[@rivercity02]

Great vid 🙏🔥

[@SquatUniversity]

THANK YOU

[@garryhost5875]

Exactly what I'm going through currently. Tanks for the detailled explanation #SquatUclub

[@kgiese9]

Hey Doc, can you explain the difference between a bulging disc and degenerative disc disease and whether you can still lift with DDD or if DDD keeps you from lifting? Love your Content.

[@futbol1972]

I have 2 lower buldging disk on back. Will a reverse hyper extensions machine agreviatte it more or will it help my lower back? Thank u

[@paulsmith-qu9ul]

Thank you so much for the helpful video. I am struggling with my nerves pull on my left leg from the back pain. After receiving the epidural, I have no back pain but still have irritated nerve muscle pull on my knees and sometimes on my foot while walking. Only some weakness on my left foot toes. What do you recommend? Do I need a surgery or it can be healed with exercise

[@deejayspillz]

Two studies have actually proven that 67% of people who suffer no pain have bulging discs. Completely normal abnormality. We shrink as we age. :)

[@SquatUniversity]

Very true - close to "wrinkles of the skin." Now that doesn't mean disc bulges don't change spine mechanics though, it just means at the time the disc bulge itself isn't generating pain.

[@deejayspillz]

Squat University just curious, have you read any of Dr. John Sarno’s books? Amazing stuff.

[@deejayspillz]

Squat University I recommended one of his books to four people with chronic back pain and their pain went away completely after reading and understanding the book. The power of placebo. I personally have two herniated discs and a couple bulging disc and squat and deadlift heavy. You can listen to the audio version free on KZbin. Just type in “Dr. Sarno Healing Back Pain”. Actually, my chiropractor recommended it to me. And I heard about it on the Howard Stern show (cured him). Joe Rogan has talked about the book too. And a list of other celebrities.

[@SquatUniversity]

Thanks for the recommendation - I'll have to check it out

[@goodmorning7807]

You are smart and I admire this great performance but how can I achieve stability

[@nykko73]

I fixed mine with exercises now back to the pain again while trying to help one of my colleagues to carry something heavy on a staircase…f g hell

[@rachidtabti]

Wonderful content, thanks Dr! Is it safe to perform body weight squats for those with bulging disc? Will be great if you could put up a tutorial how to perform them. Thanks

[@LD-uz5pc]

Does the pain go away? I believe I herniated my disc 2 days ago. Tomorrow I'll be seeing a doctor for it.