YAET - Exercises for someone with a back prob

[cornbread]

History: Used to work out until I had a ruptured disc that started causing sciactia <sp?> in my right leg, and the normal back pain that goes along with it..
Stopped working out out of fear of hurting my back anymore than I've already damaged it (Finding out soon whether or not I'm going to have to have surgery)..
I haven't really eaten right, and I'm just sick of feeling like crap from not getting the exercise that I should be getting, and I've been putting on some pounds that I want to get back off..
Can't do the atkin's diet - Known to increase chances of kidney stones and I already pass them at least once weekly, so that's out of the question..
I'm not too interested in the diet part of it, as I know what I can eat and what I shouldn't eat, and can control that part, but I want to get my muscle tone back, at least somewhat similar to what it was before.
Also, Doctor says no lifting more than 20 lbs and no running, as both can aggravate the condition. I want to do more than just walk, and I understand I need to start off slow with whatever I do, I just don't know without asking the doctor (not going to see him for another 2 weeks or so and would like to start on something sooner) what I can do safely as in situps, pushups, etc..

Soooo, my main question:
What would those of you that have had ruptured disc's or other back probs recommend as far as a good exercise regimen?

 

[Spoooon]

Personally, I would just walk. It'll burn ~ the same number of calories as jogging or running the same amount of distance. Plus, you'll be burning fat. Just be smart about carbs and stuff.

edit: And yes, I realize you want to do more than just walk.

 

[Bootprint]

Remember when they say walk, they don't mean a slow pace. Pick up the pace and find some place to go up hill, if possible.

 

[Wingznut]

After 10+ years in the auto repair business, my back is pretty messed up as well. I learned quite a bit from doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, etc...

My best advice... This isn't a question for ATOT. Ask your doctor, not a bunch of computer geeks.

Hope that helps.

 

[cornbread]

Originally posted by: Bootprint
Remember when they say walk, they don't mean a slow pace. Pick up the pace and find some place to go up hill, if possible.

My neighborhood for the most part doesn't have sidewalks and because it rains so much here, I got a treadmill that allows me to adjust the rate of incline and lets me keep time and miles and all that good stuff, I'm just wondering about other stuff I could do, like say for instance bench pressing, situps, etc..

 

[cornbread]

Originally posted by: Wingznut
After 10+ years in the auto repair business, my back is pretty messed up as well. I learned quite a bit from doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, etc...

My best advice... This isn't a question for ATOT. Ask your doctor, not a bunch of computer geeks.

Hope that helps.

LOL I was just hoping that maybe because it's a common problem that others might have little hints and tips.. I'll end up asking my doctor in a couple of weeks when i go see him again.. The physical therapy exercises that I had given to me were kinda weak it seems.
You're right though..