McGill is the man. I suggest his book Back Mechanic to anyone dealing with back issues. I blew my back out last year. I assume it was either a very bad bulge or

McGill is the man. I suggest his book Back Mechanic to anyone dealing with back issues. I blew my back out last year. I assume it was either a very bad bulge or herniated completely. I could barely walk for 2 weeks, excruciating sciatic pain every time I stood, to the point I was in tears. Granted, my mother went through similar issues at the same age so I kinda knew what I was dealing with. Anyway, suggestions from the book I'm back doing squats and deadlifts in the weightroom. I ski and mountain bike regularly as well. I get occasional pain but if I take a day off as soon as I'm aware it usually feels better quickly. He's very against surgery except in emergency situation where you can't go to the bathroom or lose feeling/motion in your legs. In most cases your back will heal in a similar amount of time without surgery. One suggestion I have is DO NOT SIT FOR LONG PERIODS. Sitting is awful for you. Walk and stand during your breaks at work if you're in an office job. If you can get your employer to buy a desk that allows you to stand at least some of the time that is also very helpful. Follow his big 3 exercises or get to the gym and do something to strengthen the muscles in your back.