<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR> exercise might give you more pain in the short run it would let you have less back pain in the long term <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

There are MANY such studies. People with "back problems" are back up to speed faster if they do not do "bed rest."

A herniated disk WILL slowly be re-absorbed over time. My own experience is that many stretching exercises I learned in "back school" (Yeah, I didn't make that up - it's a real thing, and my insurance covered it) were very helpful. The most helpful moves turned out to be the most counter-intuitive (i.e. hyper-extension). A little GOOD pt instruction, can go a long way toward increased mobility.

Maggie
5'1" ~~ Atkins since '98 (160)/Maintaining nicely (110) ~~ Redhead until further notice!

I also have arthritis in my middle and lower back. If I'm on my feet to long or doing heavy housework ( moving furniture around) I pay for it at night. Since I can't lay on the floor and do sit ups . I sit on my bed with my legs hanging over and do a half-way sit up. That doesn't really bother my back. Don't know if it is doing any good but at least I'm trying.

started 7/26/2003
one day at a time...one pound at a time
mini goal 300
337/309/200

Chargeit2him - I think you're doing great. The jogging thing is a blast, too. I know how you feel - you're walking long, and all of a sudden, you just want to RUN! Like a little kid! Careful, it can be habit forming I went from just a couple of steps to a full 30 minutes on the treadmill in under 5 months. And I feel fabulous! If you are interested in working up to sustained jogging, there is a wonderful book called Running for Women over 40 (I think that's the title). I picked it up because I was overweight at the time and I wanted a program geared to women who nneded to work up slowly. Best thing I ever did.

Dr. I - sounds like your back is a real problem. I am wondering, however, if doing some ab work helps any?

Jen
175/130/120

WOOHOO!!! I just got back from Curves. I am doing a one week intro-freebie. I did the 30 min workout. It really got my heart rate up and worked my muscles at the same time. I LOVED it. So I AM going to join. I'll do the free week and then sign up. I love the fact that it is only 5 mins. from my house. I know I will do this at least 3X per week. How 'bout it!!!!



Barb
Atkins-3/14/03
174/146/135
"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing."

Hi Barb,

My wife signed up for curves, only went twice.

However, my sister in law has been going for months and loves it!

It can't be "bad"!

261/231/?
(recently re-joined)

That's too bad, Road. I'm really excited about going to this one, especially since it's only 5 mins away. The other gym is a pain in the rear to get to. So I KNOW I will go often. In fact, I am planning on going again tomorrow. It goes so fast and is painless. To bad she won't go.



Barb
Atkins-3/14/03
174/146/135
"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing."