Podcasts about l5 s1

Your herniated disc hasn't healed because you've been treating the stiffness, not the injury — and a herniated disc is a load-bearing injury.If you've got a herniated disc (a slipped disc, disc bulge or prolapsed disc) at L4/L5 or L5/S1 and it still hasn't settled, this session explains why — and how it actually heals. A herniated disc is a loading failure: an injury to the annulus fibrosus, the tough outer ring of the disc. It does heal, automatically, the same way a graze does — but only if you stop aggravating it and start rebuilding its capacity to bear load.

An injection can take away your sciatica, but it doesn't heal the injury causing it — and that distinction decides whether you get better.If you've had, or you're being offered, a steroid injection, epidural or nerve block for sciatica or a herniated disc (a slipped disc or disc bulge) at L4/L5 or L5/S1, this session reframes the whole decision around one question: what is this injection doing to help my injury heal, not just my pain? Get that right and an injection can be a useful tool. Get it wrong and it's a mask — the pain lifts, you carry on as before, and the injury that caused it is still there.

Strengthening beats stretching for a herniated disc every time — and once you see why, the months of failed stretching finally make sense.If you've been stretching for months to ease your sciatica or a herniated disc (a slipped disc or disc bulge) at L4/L5 or L5/S1 and you keep ending up back at square one, this session explains the reason. Stretching is a relief tool at best — it loosens the tightness for a moment, but it isn't "sticky", so the next flare-up wipes it out. Strengthening rehabilitation is different: it's a skill your body keeps.

Stretching your hamstrings won't fix your sciatica — but it isn't useless either, and the difference is the whole point of this session.If you've got sciatica or a herniated disc and you've been stretching your hamstrings for months without lasting relief, this one explains why. We look at what's actually driving the leg pain, numbness and tightness — an injury low in the lumbar spine, usually a herniated or bulging disc (a slipped disc) around L4/L5 or L5/S1 — and where stretching genuinely helps versus where it quietly becomes a crutch that keeps you stuck.

If you have been struggling with persistent lower back pain, sciatica, or a herniated disc for months or even years, you have likely tried everything. From painkillers and rest to endless stretching and appointments, the cycle of temporary relief followed by another flare-up is frustrating and exhausting. You are not broken, and you are not a hopeless case. The reality is that the strategy you have been given is likely flawed. Most traditional advice addresses only a fraction of the problem, leaving you vulnerable to the unpredictable demands of daily life. True recovery requires understanding that a spine that has simply stopped hurting is not the same as a spine that is strong enough to stay pain-free. Almost all back pain advice falls into one of five camps: the orthodox medical model that prescribes rest and medication, the pain science camp that claims the issue is primarily in your head, the movement optimists who insist you must bend and twist to loosen up, the structuralists obsessed with perfect posture, and the rigid biomechanics camp that fears any spinal movement. Each of these perspectives holds a grain of truth, but applying them blindly to a compromised lumbar spine—such as an irritated L5-S1 segment—often leads to disastrous setbacks. For example, stretching an injured spine might change how you feel momentarily, but it does nothing to alter the mechanics of the injury, often driving load straight into your weakest link and triggering further inflammation.To truly recover, we must bridge clinical reasoning with active, strength-based rehabilitation. This begins with protecting the injured segment by maintaining a neutral spine and transferring the workload to your hips and legs. Once the irritation settles, the focus must shift to rebuilding objective resilience through progressive resistance training, such as the squat and the hip hinge. Learning to control your spine under load creates a lasting foundation of strength, acting as physical armour for your back. You earn back the freedom to move without fear not by endless stretching or passive treatments, but by developing the capacity and robust muscle health required to support your spine for the long term.Key Topics Covered

If you have ever been left completely incapacitated simply by bending over to put on a sock or getting out of your car, you are not alone. It can feel deeply frustrating and mysterious when a herniated disc or sciatica keeps flaring up for seemingly no reason at all. However, once you understand the actual mechanics of the human spine, these unpredictable flare-ups make perfect sense. Unlike peripheral joints such as your elbow or shoulder, which you can consciously control and move independently, your spine is a stack of vertebral segments connected by ligaments. You have zero conscious control over individual segments like L4-L5 or L5-S1. When you suffer a lower back injury, you lose the structural tension at that specific segment, creating a weak link in the chain. Because you cannot consciously lock that single joint down, any sudden or unguarded movement will take the path of least resistance, funnelling directly into that damaged, wobbly segment. This is why traditional advice to "just wiggle it" or stretch often backfires—it forces more motion into an area that desperately needs stability. To stop the cycle of flare-ups, you must learn to use the "override switch." By learning to engage your core and stabilise the relationship between your ribcage and pelvis, you can protect the vulnerable segments of your lumbar spine, allowing the damaged ligaments the time they need to heal. Key Topics Covered

Harry presents with a right-sided posterolateral disc herniation at L5-S1 and demonstrates weakness associated with the involved nerve root. Which of the following gait deviations is MOST likely?A) Diminished propulsion during terminal stanceB) Increased plantarflexion following initial contactC) Contralateral pelvic drop during stanceD) Genu recurvatum during stanceJoin the FREE Facebook Group: www.nptegroup.comAre your scores stuck despite working hard? Take my diagnostic quiz: https://thepthustle.com/blocks

Spine specialist, Dr. Casey Johnston shares an interesting case of a 58 y.o. triathlete with severe back and leg pain. Dr. Casey Johnston, D.C. is the owner and Clinical Director for Desert Springs Chiropractic. He has been in full time private practice since 2001. He is an alumnus of Oklahoma State University and Texas Chiropractic College. Prior to his work at DSCC, he worked as the Lead Chiropractor for multi clinic medical organization in Houston, Texas. During his tenure he trained and established chiropractic and rehabilitation protocols for the Chiropractic, Physical Medicine and Physical Therapy Departments for the various clinics. Dedicated to continually offering the most cutting-edge care, Dr. Johnston consistently trains in new and advanced techniques. Using the most advanced research, Desert Springs offers a dynamic system for assessing and reassessing each patient as an individual. Designing individualized care for each person and their individual needs is our number one priority. Taking time to fully understand each patient's unique situation has often provided success in complicated cases when medicine, physical therapy, surgery and even other chiropractors have been unable to help. Dr. Johnston and our staff use Gonstead Chiropractic corrective adjustments, coupled with Titleist Performance Institute (analysis, strength and conditioning) rehab protocols to build an individualized and effective plan of action for our patients. Dr. Johnston employs both hands-on and/or low force mechanical adjusting techniques depending on the individual patients needs and requests. Dr. J, as he is often called, has significant experience with over 18 years working with injuries to the spinal discs (herniations, bulges, degenerative discs, sciatica, etc.). After injuring his own L5/S1 disc, he developed protocols to help others recover based on his personal experience and success. He often employs Cox Flexion/Distraction (using the Cox 8 table/instrument), decompression, ELDOA and the McKenzie method for disc conditions. Often, we work in combination with primary care physicians, pain management doctors and/or surgeons to achieve the best results for our patients. Resources: Dr. Johnston's webpage Episode 132 Dr. Casey Johnston – Recurrent Back Pain Find a Cox Certified Doctor The Cox 8 Table by Haven Medical

If you have been struggling with long-standing lower back pain, sciatica, or a diagnosed L5-S1 herniated disc, it is common to feel like you have tried everything. From chiropractors and osteopaths to injections and even microdiscectomy surgery, many patients find themselves stuck in a cycle of temporary relief followed by frustrating flare-ups. The reason for this often lies in a focus on symptoms rather than the underlying injury. In this session, we break down the recovery process into four distinct, overlapping layers that move beyond just "stopping the pain" and instead focus on rebuilding the structural integrity of your spine.We explore how your specific injury exists within the unique context of your spine, your personal physical attributes, and your daily lifestyle. Whether you are dealing with a transitional vertebra like Bertolotti Syndrome, a scoliosis, or a high-pressure job like roofing or parenting, these factors must be accounted for in your rehabilitation. By shiftng the focus toward building resilience through progressive loading—specifically using movements like the squat and hip hinge—you can create a body that is robust enough to handle the stresses of the real world, from playing golf to picking up your children.Key Topics Covered

You've been to multiple physios, had numerous MRIs, and yet that L5-S1 herniated disc is still causing you daily agony. The core problem isn't necessarily the injury itself, but rather that traditional rehabilitation often treats a piece of paper—the MRI scan—instead of treating the person attached to it. A herniated disc doesn't exist in a vacuum; it exists inside a human being who has specific physical attributes, strength deficits, and a messy, highly demanding daily life. If your programme only focuses on passive stretching or chasing symptoms without addressing the underlying structural weakness, you will remain stuck in a cycle of pain. We must address the structural reality that your spine has changed and requires a targeted, progressive approach to rebuild its capacity.To truly recover, you must bridge the gap between what your spine can currently handle and what your lifestyle demands of it. We refer to this as the 'Bank Balance' illusion: just because you've made initial deposits of strength doesn't mean you're out of the overdraft yet. Flare-ups will inevitably happen when you push the envelope too soon or ignore the 'Twilight Zone' of recovery. By identifying your unique gaps in flexibility, strength, and coordination, and by respecting the biological healing times of your ligaments and discs, you can finally begin to stabilise the spine. Today, we're unpacking exactly why ten people with the exact same diagnosis need completely different strategies, and how you can track your true progress to break free from chronic sciatica and back pain for good.Key Topics Covered

Can rounding your back actually heal a herniated disc? Today we're tackling a massive trend in the rehab space: using exercises like Jefferson Curls to intentionally round your lower back under load. While the idea that "the spine is designed to bend, so we should train it to bend" sounds incredibly logical, treating a multi-segmental spinal column like a simple hinge joint ignores the biomechanical reality of an active disc injury. We break down why trying to strengthen your lower back in a flexed position is essentially a guessing game that leaves you with zero margin for error, often keeping you trapped in a frustrating cycle of flare-ups and sciatica. Instead of risking setbacks with unpredictable spinal flexion, we advocate for the neutral spine approach to rebuild your resilience. By keeping your spine in a neutral position during essential movements like the squat and hip hinge, you create a safe, measurable baseline for rehabilitation. This method removes the guesswork entirely. If you can perform a hip hinge with perfect posture holding 5 kg today, and progress to 30 kg in a few months, you have undeniable, objective proof that your spinal capacity has improved. We'll explain why mastering this control builds true strength, resolves the underlying injury, and ultimately restores your confidence to move freely in everyday life.Key Topics Covered⚠️ The Measurement Problem: When you perform forward-bending exercises, it is impossible to accurately measure how much movement is occurring at the specific injured segment, like L5/S1. Because you are guessing your range of motion without objective feedback, your margin for error is non-existent, making it incredibly easy to overshoot and trigger a massive flare-up.

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I had been doing "fascia work" for years before I knew what it was. I first learned about fascia about five years ago, but have been "working" it for about twenty going back to an injury that was diagnosed as a herniated disc at the L5/S1 juncture. (A reminder: I'm not a medical professional, this is just my experience.) When I had the injury, I was bedridden for three months and daily physical therapy wasn't helping. So I looked within and used my intuition to heal myself. It was only when I did much longer, deeper hours of physical therapy that I began to see relief, which is characteristic of fascia because it is so much stronger than muscles.First though, what is fascia? It's a layer of connective tissue below the skin that surrounds all of the cells, nerves, joints, tendons, muscles, organs, bones, and ligaments in your body. Oh, is that all? I truly believe in about ten or twenty years, everyone will know or be doing fascia work the way we all know what stretching is today.In this episode, I demonstrate some of the tools I use to do my "fascia work".Here are a couple of helpful articles about fascia:⁠-What is Fascia: WebMD⁠⁠-Muscle Pain: It May Actually Be Fascia from Johns Hopkins⁠Some background: Self-care is one of the pillars of my life. I've learned that if I don't make it a habit, I tend to run myself into the ground. In the next few months, I'm going to go into detail about my self-care practices and hopefully you can pick up some nuggets and craft one of your own. NEXT WEEK04/30/26 Movement as self-care: finding what you like and automating it05/07/26 Creativity as self-care: finding ways to express what's insideRESOURCESIntro to Fascia videos: ⁠http://tinyurl.com/fasciavideos⁠Season of Self-Care: ⁠⁠https://bywdreams.mailerpage.com/seasonselfcare⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BYWDreams.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our books: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TinyURL.com/BYWDbooks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fascia ToolsFace Multitool: I have about six tools from this company that I use on my face and body (I'll show body ones next week). I use the body ones in the shower because I don't like using them with oil as recommended. ⁠https://www.fasciablaster.com/⁠Pneumatic Cups: NOTHING gets as deep a release as these. I use them about once a month. ⁠https://amzn.to/484HPlE⁠Wooden Comb: This isn't mine but it's closer than others I saw. ⁠https://amzn.to/4tVF3b1⁠Muscle Hook: I love this so much I have two of them so I can keep one with camping gear. I use this when I'm watching a screen for awhile and sitting in one place. ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/484HPlE⁠⁠Stone Sandals: I use these daily. These were one of the most painful things I've ever done, but now I can wear them pain-free. ⁠https://amzn.to/4tVF3b1⁠Acupressure Mat: I use this 1-2x a week and take the best naps on it although the first few times I used it I thought I was going to jump up and run out of the room. ⁠https://amzn.to/4tS2MbY⁠

When dealing with a herniated disc or severe lower back pain, strapping on a lumbar support belt might seem like the most logical step to protect your spine. It makes sense in theory: if a joint is injured, you provide it with external stability to guard it from vulnerable positions. However, for most lower back injuries—particularly those involving a herniated disc at L4-L5 or L5-S1—a traditional back brace falls fundamentally short.. The anatomical reality is that these lower segments sit deep within the pelvis, at or below the iliac crests, which is well below where a standard belt can effectively grip and support. In fact, relying on a lumbar belt can inadvertently make your injury worse. Because the belt artificially restricts movement in the upper lumbar segments (L2-L4), any bending you perform forces the unstabilised, injured lower segments to absorb even more stress to compensate. Instead of relying on a passive, external crutch that bypasses the root problem, true recovery requires building up your internal corset. By focusing on active rehabilitation—learning to stabilise your neutral spine and hinging properly at the hips—you can develop the resilient, long-term strength needed to overcome disc bulges and sciatica without needing a physical bel. Key Topics Covered

I had been doing "fascia work" for years before I knew what it was. I first learned about fascia about five years ago, but have been "working" it for about twenty going back to an injury that was diagnosed as a herniated disc at the L5/S1 juncture. (A reminder: I'm not a medical professional, this is just my experience.) However, it was only when I did much longer, deeper hours of physical therapy that I began to see relief, which is characteristic of fascia because it is so much stronger than muscles.First though, what is fascia? It's a layer of connective tissue below the skin that surrounds all of the cells, nerves, joints, tendons, muscles, organs, bones, and ligaments in your body. Oh, is that all? I truly believe in about ten or twenty years, everyone will know or be doing fascia work the way we all know what stretching is today.In this episode, I tell you about my fascia journey and some of my practices to keep myself pain-free.Here are a couple of helpful articles about fascia:-What is Fascia: WebMD-Muscle Pain: It May Actually Be Fascia from Johns HopkinsSome background: Self-care is one of the pillars of my life. I've learned that if I don't make it a habit, I tend to run myself into the ground. In the next few months, I'm going to go into detail about my self-care practices and hopefully you can pick up some nuggets and craft one of your own. NEXT WEEK04/23/26 Movement as self-care: all of my many fascia implements part 204/30/26 Movement as self-care: finding what you like and automating itRESOURCESIntro to Fascia videos: http://tinyurl.com/fasciavideosSeason of Self-Care: ⁠https://bywdreams.mailerpage.com/seasonselfcare⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BYWDreams.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our books: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TinyURL.com/BYWDbooks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fascia ToolsFace Multitool: I have about six tools from this company that I use on my face and body (I'll show body ones next week). I use the body ones in the shower because I don't like using them with oil as recommended. https://www.fasciablaster.com/Pneumatic Cups: NOTHING gets as deep a release as these. I use them about once a month. https://amzn.to/484HPlEWooden Comb: This isn't mine but it's closer than others I saw. https://amzn.to/4tVF3b1I will demo these next week:Muscle Hook: I love this so much I have two of them so I can keep one with camping gear. I use this when I'm watching a screen for awhile and sitting in one place. ⁠https://amzn.to/484HPlE⁠Stone Sandals: I use these daily. These were one of the most painful things I've ever done, but now I can wear them pain-free. https://amzn.to/4tVF3b1Acupressure Mat: I use this 1-2x a week and take the best naps on it although the first few times I used it I thought I was going to jump up and run out of the room. https://amzn.to/4tS2MbY

Learn how to fix your pain with our “Centralization Process” here! https://rebrand.ly/ytpainfreeSubmit an application to work with us 1:1 and learn how to fix your low back! ⁠www.therehabfix.com/low-back-program⁠To view hundreds of free low back videos please follow us on instagram at @rehabfix ⁠www.instagram.com/rehabfix⁠If your low back pain gets worse when you lean backward, lie on your stomach, or try extension exercises… this isn't random, and it's not just “tight muscles.”Most people are told to stretch more or rest, but that usually makes things worse. The real issue is often something deeper, a disc-related restriction that's blocking your ability to extend your spine and creating compression, irritation, and even nerve symptoms.In this episode, I'll break down exactly what's happening inside your low back, and show you a simple 3-step process to unlock your spine, reduce compression, and finally move without pain.

It is incredibly frustrating to experience debilitating sciatic nerve pain, only to have your spinal imaging come back labelled as "clear" or showing just mild age-related changes. In this livestream, Michael explains the massive disconnect between what an X-ray or MRI shows and the mechanical reality of your spine. Scans are taken when you are completely unloaded (lying down or standing perfectly still), which fails to demonstrate how your spinal segments behave under the dynamic compression and shear forces of daily life. When symptoms present heavily at L4-L5 or L5-S1, it is often due to a profound loss of physical resilience and deconditioning, rather than a catastrophic structural failure that a scan would immediately highlight. When you take an extended break from physical activity—whether to raise a family, recover from a different setback, or simply due to modern sedentary lifestyles—your lumbopelvic region loses its load-bearing capacity. This deconditioning means that ordinary tasks suddenly overwhelm the weakened ligaments and discs, triggering protective muscle spasms and referred nerve pain. Instead of relying on gimmicks like inversion boots, rigid back braces, or overly complex back extension machines that carry a high risk of worsening your injury, you must focus on structured rehabilitation. By mastering the neutral spine and learning to correctly perform fundamental movements like the hip hinge and squat, you can actively stabilise the injured area, build a muscular shield, and guide your body through a genuine healing programme.Key Topics Covered

Are you suffering from sciatic nerve pain that runs from your buttocks down your leg, but have zero lower back pain? You might have been told you have piriformis syndrome, but this is frequently a misdiagnosis. In this livestream, Michael explains why the piriformis muscle doesn't simply spasm for no reason to compress the sciatic nerve. Instead of an isolated muscle issue, this "fake" sciatica is almost always rooted in an underlying lumbar spine injury, such as a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease, typically at the L4-L5 or L5-S1 segments. Constantly attacking the piriformis with aggressive deep tissue massage, cricket balls, and excessive stretching can actually cause local tissue damage and worsen the real problem. When a lower back injury irritates the nerve roots, it causes protective muscle spasms and dysfunction downstream in the glutes, hamstrings, and piriformis. To truly resolve the pain and stop the cycle of constant flare-ups, you must stop wiggling the injured joint and focus on rebuilding its structural resilience. The key to long-term recovery lies in learning how to stabilise the lumbopelvic region. By mastering fundamental movements like the hip hinge and squat, and gradually increasing your load-bearing capacity, you can protect the injured spinal segments. This progressive rehabilitation allows the inflammation to settle and restores your ability to perform daily activities without triggering that familiar, burning nerve pain.Key Topics Covered

Are you tired of living in pain? Dealing with sciatica, back pain, or shoulder and hip issues?

One day while snowboarding, Sachin made a move and his entire leg felt like it was on fire.Within days, he couldn't move, couldn't sit, couldn't function without intense burning sciatica. An MRI revealed two disc herniations (11mm L4-L5, 7mm L5-S1) and spine surgeons recommended surgery, including a laminectomy and microdiscectomy.At that point, surgery didn't sit well with him. He had real reservations and started questioning his path forward:What would life look like after his first surgery?Would it actually fix the problem, or just lead to more?Would he eventually need a fusion, knowing how often one surgery turns into another, and another?Sachin also had concerns about the long-term efficacy of surgery, knowing that many people can end up back in the same place and require additional procedures down the line.He had seen the success of many Whealth members who avoided surgery, so he wanted to try the Limitless program first. He told his spine surgeon that plan and they agreed it was a fair approach.Instead of rushing into surgery, he joined the Whealth Limitless Program.He didn't want to end up back in the same place. He knew he needed to rebuild his body mechanics and take a more holistic, long-term approach.Within the program, he learned how to actually move his body, which was empowering.Within 3 to 4 weeks, pain started improving.By 8 weeks, he was not only pain-free, he felt better than before the injury.Like many of our members, he didn't just heal. The injury forced him to slow down and focus on things most people skip. Movement quality, body mechanics, posture, and awareness. Because of that, he didn't just get out of pain. He broke through plateaus and came back stronger than before.If you're dealing with• Sciatica• Disc herniations or bulges• Chronic back pain• Hypermobility-related aches and pains• Failed PT, injections, or temporary fixesYou're not alone, and you're not broken.At Whealth, we've helped 24,000+ people overcome chronic pain and get back to living fully.Book a free consultationExplore our programsWhat you'll learn in this episode• Why disc herniations don't have to mean surgery• What actually causes sciatica beyond the MRI• Why most rehab approaches fail• How to rebuild your body step by step• What it really takes to become pain-freeChapters00:04:39 Why Sachin Chose Limitless Over Surgery00:10:19 Sachin's 8-Week Journey to Becoming Completely Pain-Free00:19:03 Trusting Intuition and Learning Body Mechanics Post-Recovery00:31:38 Weighing the Costs and Benefits of Surgery vs. Holistic Rehab00:41:31 Balancing Demanding Entrepreneurship with Personal Health HabitsIf this story resonates with you, drop a comment or reach out. We read every message.And if you found this helpful, make sure to subscribe.

The McKenzie Cobra is widely prescribed for lower back injuries, specifically herniated discs, operating on the theory that extending the lumbar spine will squeeze the bulging disc material back into place. However, this clinical approach often misses the reality of spinal biomechanics. When you have a herniated disc, the injured segment lacks stability. Forcing it into repeated extension can cause the vertebrae to shear backward rather than bend smoothly, placing tremendous strain on already damaged ligaments and soft tissues. Furthermore, because the disc herniates backwards into the spinal canal, bending backwards physically narrows this space. If there is inflammation or disc material present, the Cobra stretch can actively compress the nerves, triggering sharp pain or sciatica down the leg. Instead of chasing symptom relief with risky extension exercises, true rehabilitation requires gentle axial elongation, such as towel decompression, alongside a structured programme to rebuild core stability and spinal resilience over the long term. Key Topics Covered

When you are struggling with a herniated disc or severe sciatica, the most common advice is often to simply "rest." However, this passive approach is exactly what keeps so many people trapped in a cycle of chronic pain and sudden flare-ups. The reality is that true resting is nearly impossible; daily activities like getting dressed, going downstairs, or shifting in bed continuously put strain on the injured segments of your lower back. Every time you move in a way that allows the injured area to bend or twist, you risk aggravating the underlying tissue and triggering those familiar jolts of pain.Instead of hoping that passive rest or stretching will fix the problem, the key to long-term recovery is actively rebuilding strength and stability in your lumbar spine. Sciatica is merely a symptom, not a condition itself to resolve it, you must rehabilitate the injured disc—often at the L4-L5 or L5-S1 levels—by learning to protect it. By mastering foundational exercises like the squat and the hip hinge with a neutral spine, you build the muscular competence and resilience required to handle the loads of everyday life. This targeted programme of spinal stability ensures that your body can heal effectively without you constantly picking the scab.Key Topics Covered

Tree pruning, yard spraying, and leaf raking in store for today. At least until my back says enough' s enough, I am metal on my spine at L5 S1! The Music Authority Podcast...download, listen, share, repeat…heard daily on Belter Radio, Podchaser, Deezer, Amazon Music, Audible, Listen Notes, Mixcloud, Player FM, Tune In, Podcast Addict, Cast Box, Radio Public, Pocket Cast, APPLE iTunes, and direct for the source distribution site: *Podcast - https://themusicauthority.transistor.fm/  *The Website - TheMusicAuthority.comThe Music Authority Podcast! Special Recorded Network Shows, too! Different than my daily show! Follow me on “X” Jim Prell@TMusicAuthority*The Music Authority on @BelterRadio Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 7 pm ET & Wednesday 9 pm ET*Radio Candy Radio Monday Wednesday, & Friday 7PM ET, 4PM PT*Rockin' The KOR Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 7PM UK time, 2PM ET, 11AM PT  www.koradio.rocks*Pop Radio UK Friday, Saturday, & Sunday 6PM UK, 1PM ET, 10AM PT! *The Sole Of Indie https://soleofindie.rocks/ Monday Through Friday 6-7PM EST!*AltPhillie.Rocks Sunday, Thursday, & Saturday At 11:00AM ET!March 11, 2026, Wednesday, second act…@The Swingin' Blue Jeans - Hippy Hippy Shake@The Ex-Bombers - In Music City@Mozzy Dee - Mess Around [April 2023 Audio Jukebox] (@Rum Bar Records)@The Legal Matters - Stuck With Me [Lost At Sea] (@Big Stir Records)@Ger Eaton - The Time It Takes To Fall@Mark Lofgren - Red Giant vs White Dwarf [Black Moon Book II]@Caper Clowns - Behind The Waterfall (Ayayahoo)@ZipGun Bomber - Tuesday Afternoon [Early Times] (@Rum Bar Records)@Big Star - You Get What You Deserve [Radio City]@Desolation Sound - Yesterday Was Long Ago [Salish Rock] (@Robo Jack Records)@The Grip Weeds - Spinning The Wheel [Soul Bender] (@Jem Records)@Christopher Peifer - The Infernal Racket [The Social Distance]@Del Amitri - Roll To Me@Gentlemen Rogues - Thin As Thieves [A History of Fatalism]@Joe Normal Featuring @Scott Sax - Maybe This Is All Made Up@The Masticators - This Time, Right Now [Complete Masticators!] (@Futureman Records)@Dulcet Tones – As I Am@SVI – Levitation 

100 days ago, Bo Wind was diagnosed with a severe 10mm L5-S1 disc herniation with sciatica. She was in excruciating pain, unable to walk, barely sleeping, and surgeons told her that back surgery was her only option.Today, she is 100% pain-free, without surgery.In this episode, Bo shares how she went from 10/10 nerve pain and being cared for by her husband and best friend, to lifting again, training for her first HYROX race, and fully showing up as a mom to her 5-year-old son.Before finding Whealth, Bo tried physical therapy but felt lost without structure or progression. What changed everything was a conversation with her sister-in-law (a PT) who encouraged her to approach surgery cautiously and trust the body's ability to heal.After booking a consultation with co-founder Cam and starting the Limitless Rehab Program, Bo finally had a clear, full-body plan. Within 100 days, her pain was gone and the nerve irritation resolved.This conversation covers:• L5-S1 disc herniation recovery• Sciatica without surgery• Why structure and progression matter in rehab• Surgery recommendations and considerations• How mindset and guidance accelerate healingIf you've been told surgery is your only option, this episode offers another perspective.Use code POD15 for 15% off the Limitless Program:https://spreadwhealth.com/limitless-programThis is the same program Bo- and thousands of Whealth members - have used to overcome back pain, sciatica, disc herniations, and disc bulges.

Learn how to fix your pain with our “Centralization Process” here! https://rebrand.ly/ytpainfreeSubmit an application to work with us 1:1 and learn how to fix your low back! ⁠www.therehabfix.com/low-back-program⁠To view hundreds of free low back videos please follow us on instagram at @rehabfix ⁠www.instagram.com/rehabfix⁠If bending forward, sitting too long, or rolling over in bed causes sharp low back pain or pain down your leg… your back pain may be coming from a disc herniation. The good news?97% of disc herniations recover without surgery — and you do NOT need to stop working out to fix it.In this episode, I'll show you:

In this episode of Get Back To It, Dr. Rita Roy speaks with Rich Rabin, a technology and product leader whose life was upended by severe nerve pain caused by an L5–S1 disc herniation. What began as manageable glute pain progressed into debilitating nerve symptoms that affected his sleep, mobility, and overall quality of life. After months of conservative treatments—including physical therapy and injections—Rich ultimately underwent a microdiscectomy to relieve nerve compression.While surgery addressed the primary issue, recovery proved gradual and unpredictable. Rich shares candidly about the mental and emotional challenges of healing, the importance of self-advocacy, and learning that spine recovery is rarely linear.Inspired by his own frustration tracking fluctuating symptoms, Rich created Recoverly, a free iPhone app designed to help patients log daily symptoms and identify trends—supporting clearer communication with healthcare providers.Rich's story is a powerful reminder that healing takes patience; progress isn't always steady, and resilience can grow from even the most difficult setbacks.Support the show

My Current Over-40 Fat Loss Routine (What's Changed & Why It Works)Click On My Website Below To Schedule A Free 15 Min Zoom Call:www.Over40FitnessHacks.comOver 40 Fitness Hacks SKOOL Group!Get Your Whoop4.0 Here!In this solo episode, Brad Williams of Over 40 Fitness Hacks shares an updated snapshot of his current routine, covering workouts, supplements, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies he's using to push toward his leanest physique yet while protecting his joints and long-term health.Brad explains why he's slowing down podcast publishing—now focusing on one solo episode and one guest per month—and why he's prioritizing deeper engagement inside his free SKOOL community. After hundreds of interviews, he's shifting from repeating the same conversations to showing real-time experimentation and progress.At 184 pounds and aiming for 180, Brad walks through what it actually takes to approach single-digit body fat over 40, emphasizing that it's challenging, not necessarily “healthy,” and requires extreme consistency. His goal is transparency—showing his community both the results and the struggle.Morning Routine & Mobility Each day starts with hot showers, cat-cow stretching, nerve flossing, and light mobility work—non-negotiables after multiple L5-S1 microdiscectomies. These short daily practices help keep his spine healthy and pain-free.Supplements & Tracking Rather than guessing, Brad uses the Cronometer app to track micronutrients and identify deficiencies. His supplement stack adjusts based on real data and includes essentials like magnesium, zinc, omega-3s, vitamin D3 + K2, calcium, vitamin C, CoQ10, turmeric, and targeted minerals—taken strategically throughout the day to avoid absorption conflicts. He emphasizes nutrient balance (omega-3 to omega-6, zinc to copper, sodium to potassium, calcium to oxalates) over megadosing.Training SplitMonday / Wednesday / Friday: 30-minute full-body gym workouts using a time-under-tension approach. Brad rotates chest, back, and legs with lighter weights, slower tempos, and longer sets to reduce joint stress while still building muscle.Tuesday / Thursday: Short (10–15 min) blood flow restriction (BFR) workouts at home, focusing on arms and legs with very light weights—or physical therapy if recovery feels off.Core Work: Planks, side planks, and controlled leg raises, with a warning about ab rollers after suffering an inguinal hernia.Cardio & Daily Movement: Daily 30-minute walks (often with a weighted vest), plus weekly high-intensity rebounder sprint sessions for mitochondrial health and calorie burn—his safer alternative to outdoor sprinting post-back surgery.Calorie Tracking & Fat Loss Brad relies on his WHOOP data—not generic calculators—to manage calorie intake day by day. He adjusts food intake based on actual burn, especially when pushing fat loss. For him, precision matters more as body fat drops.Nutrition Philosophy The biggest shift over 40: insulin awareness. Brad explains how frequent eating kills fat-burning and why he now favors two meals per day, eaten within short windows, prioritizing protein and fats first, carbs last. This approach improves insulin response, appetite control, and fat loss. On weekends, he still tracks calories while allowing flexibility with food and alcohol—using fiber strategically to slow absorption.If you're interested in online personal training or being a guest on my podcast, "Over 40 Fitness Hacks," you can reach me at brad@over40fitnesshacks.com or visit my website at:www.Over40FitnessHacks.comAdditionally, check out my Yelp reviews for my local business, Evolve Gym in Huntington Beach, at https://bit.ly/3GCKRzV

If you sit down and immediately start adjusting, searching for the first sign of pain, or If movies, car rides, or desk work feel like a countdown until your back flares up…I lived that reality for over 10 years. Living with a herniated or bulging disc makes sitting feel dangerous. You're constantly asking yourself how long you can last before your back locks up, your leg starts buzzing, or that familiar ache takes over. And the worst part? You're trying to “sit correctly,” your buying the best chairs or maybe even use a sit to stand desk set up, but nothing seems to work. That's not because sitting is bad for you. It's because most people are missing the strategy that makes sitting feel safe again. In this video, I walk you through what I call the S.A.F.E. Framework, a simple, repeatable approach that helps your body calm down so you can sit longer with less pain. This isn't about perfect posture or forcing yourself upright. It's about creating the right environment so your nervous system stops sounding the alarm. You'll learn how small changes in setup, support, and movement cues can dramatically reduce sensitivity when you sit. You'll also see why pain from sitting isn't just a disc issue, it's often a sensitivity and tolerance issue. When those aren't addressed, no chair, stretch, or brace will ever feel like enough. This framework works at your desk, in the car, on flights, at the movies, or anywhere sitting usually steals your comfort. And it applies whether your pain is coming from L4-L5, L5-S1, sciatica, or chronic low back tension that just won't let go.

Tired of being in pain? Join the Whealth Limitless Program and start your path toward a pain-free life today:

If you sit down and immediately feel your back tighten… If you shift every few minutes trying to find a position that won't flare things up… And if working at a desk feels harder than the workout you're avoiding, I GET IT. For people living with chronic low back pain, sitting isn't neutral.It's threatening.And most chairs quietly make it worse. In this video, I walk you through why the chair you sit in every day matters more than you think, especially if you're dealing with disc bulges, herniations, or ongoing L4-L5 and L5-S1 pain. This isn't a hype review. It's a real-world breakdown of the OdinLake O2 Ergonomic Chair and why it's one of the few chairs I've found that actually supports a sensitive spine instead of fighting it. You'll see how specific features like adjustable lumbar support, seat depth, backrest movement, and overall stability impact your nervous system, not just your posture. Because relief doesn't come from “sitting perfectly.” It comes from feeling supported, safe, and able to relax instead of brace. I also compare this chair to what I personally used for years and explain why upgrading made a noticeable difference in how long I could sit without pain creeping in. I'll be honest about the pros, the cons, and who this chair is not for; because no chair fixes everything. But the right one can stop quietly aggravating your pain every single day. If sitting has been one of your biggest triggers, this video will help you understand what actually matters when choosing the best office chair for chronic low back pain and why the wrong chair can keep you stuck no matter how much rehab you do. ➡️ OdinLake O2 (Ergo MAX 747)https://www.odinlake.com/products/odinlake-o2-ergo-max-747?ref=wvqmmkoy

Silver Alkhafaji's journey through chronic back pain began when she was a teenager and intensified during her PhD studies at UCSF. Misdiagnoses, escalating symptoms, and delayed imaging prolonged her suffering until an MRI finally revealed L5–S1 spondylolisthesis caused by a bilateral pars defect. After conservative care failed, Silver underwent a spinal fusion with laminectomy in December 2023. Recovery was far from linear—marked by setbacks, medication trials, physical therapy challenges, and emotional hurdles—but through perseverance, self-advocacy, and creative expression, she reclaimed her life. Today, Silver embraces healing through writing, community, and continued strength-building. Her story exemplifies the power of persistence, proper diagnosis, and listening to one's body.Support the show

If you wake up every morning already bracing for the first bolt of pain… or if bending over to grab your socks feels like a negotiation with your own body… I see you. Living with chronic L4-L5 or L5-S1 pain makes simple things feel dangerous. You stretch. You strengthen. You brace your core until your ribs hurt. You've done the injections, the massages, the MRIs. And the craziest part? You're putting in more effort than most people ever will, but getting less relief. Here's the truth no one talks about: you don't stay stuck because you're not doing enough. You stay stuck because you're doing too much. Your nervous system is overwhelmed.Your routine is cluttered.Your body is confused on what's actually safe. In this video, I'll walk you through the simple mindset shifts that help you stop fighting your pain and start understanding it. You'll learn why ease is protection, why the body resists pressure, and why your back isn't broken, it's just overwhelmed. By the end, you'll know exactly how subtraction becomes the fastest path to clarity, confidence, and freedom. If you're ready to stop chasing fixes and finally commit to a strategy that works, here's where to go next:

Pelle was in the best shape of his life — but also in the worst pain of his life.A competitive athlete and coach, Pelle suddenly developed debilitating pain from an L4-L5 disc bulge and L5-S1 herniation. He couldn't sleep, couldn't shower, and was told by doctors that his condition was permanent and would require surgery.Instead, Pelle found the Whealth Limitless Program — and in just 10 weeks, he went from lying on the floor unable to move to 95% pain-free and training again.In this episode, Pelle shares how he rebuilt his body, regained hope, and redefined what healing actually means.

If your back always feels tight, heavy, or compressed, these 4 simple decompression exercises will help you feel lighter, looser, and finally in control again. Whether you're dealing with an L4-L5 or L5-S1 disc bulge, herniation, or sciatica, decompression can be one of the most effective ways to reduce pressure on your spine and calm your nervous system. In this video, you'll learn: ✅ 4 easy decompression exercises you can do at home, no equipment needed ✅ How to safely relieve tension in your lower back without stretching too far or flaring it up ✅ The best way to reset your nervous system so your spine feels supported again ✅ Why traditional “traction” or hanging decompression can sometimes make things worse This isn't just about temporary relief, it's about teaching your body to trust movement again so you can bend, lift, and live pain-free without fear of flare-ups. If you've tried everything (doctors, therapy, meds, injections) and still feel stuck, this is where lasting relief starts, by resetting your body's protection system and rebuilding confidence in your movement. -WIlliam LOVING THIS CONTENT? HERE'S WHERE YOU CAN GET MORE!

Do you wake up with stiffness, soreness, or sharp pain in your lower back every morning? Especially if you've been told you have an L4-L5 or L5-S1 disc bulge or herniation, those painful mornings can feel like the worst way to start your day. In this video, I'll show you a simple morning routine designed specifically for disc pain relief. These aren't random stretches you've already tried, this routine focuses on calming your nervous system, gently decompressing your spine, and preparing your back to move confidently throughout the day. ✅ What you'll learn:- Why traditional morning stretches can actually make disc pain worse- A step-by-step “wake-up flow” to reduce stiffness and ease pressure on your discs- How to build confidence in your back so you stop fearing flare-ups If you've tried doctors, medications, injections, or even surgery with little relief, this is for you. -WIlliam LOVING THIS CONTENT? HERE'S WHERE YOU CAN GET MORE!

Get a free demo of our back pain cure “Centralization Process”, by clicking here! ⁠https://rebrand.ly/rehabfixSubmit an application to work with us 1:1 and learn how to fix your low back! ⁠www.therehabfix.com/low-back-program⁠To view hundreds of free low back videos please follow us on instagram at @rehabfix ⁠www.instagram.com/rehabfix⁠Have you herniated your L5/S1 disc and think getting back into the gym is impossible? Think again. In this video, I break down my 2-phase disc recovery method that thousands of people have used to reduce disc herniation, rebuild their spine, and return to full exercise safely — without surgery.I'll show you exactly how to:✅ Calm your nervous system and prepare your low back for movement✅ Reduce your disc herniation with targeted mobility and stability exercises✅ Rebuild your spine's strength to handle squats, deadlifts, and even explosive movements✅ Overcome fear and safely return to heavy lifting and athletic activityYou'll also learn why most disc herniations happen at L5/S1, why MRIs aren't the only answer, and how lifestyle factors like stress, sleep, and movement habits contribute to your recovery.Whether your goal is to squat, deadlift, or just move pain-free again, this Reduce + Rebuild method gives you the step-by-step framework to safely get back in the gym — and even come back stronger than before.

If you've been struggling with an L4-L5 or L5-S1 disc bulge or herniation that just won't seem to heal, you're not alone. Many people feel stuck, trying stretches, core work, therapy, injections, or even surgery, with little to no lasting relief. In this video, I'll walk you through the 4 biggest reasons your disc problem isn't getting better, and more importantly, what you can do differently starting today. Don't worry, these reasons go far beyond the typical “strengthen your core” or “rest until it heals” advice you've probably already heard.

Solving Chronic Pain with Systems Thinking : New Age Physical TherapyClick On My Website Below To Schedule A Free 15 Min Zoom Call:www.Over40FitnessHacks.comOver 40 Fitness Hacks SKOOL Group!Get Your Whoop4.0 Here!Rick Olderman - Physical TherapistNew Book: Pain PatternsWebsite: www.RickOlderman.comTopic: Chronic Pain, Frozen Shoulder, Neck Issues, and Practical Self-FixesGuest: Rick Olderman, PT with 30 years of experience and author of Pain Patterns

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain (and maybe the hospital gown) on something I rarely go into detail about... my long, complicated, sometimes comical history with fourteen surgeries. Yep, 14. From having a tumor removed at age three, to getting breast implants (and later explanting them), to a full-on spinal disc replacement… it's been a journey! Spoiler alert: almost all roads lead back to my back. Whether it was compensating during workouts, posture shifts from surgery scar tissue, or the ripple effects of certain cosmetic procedures, neurological issues and more…  my spine has carried the load... literally and metaphorically... for decades. I open up about: Why I got each surgery (the real reasons, not just the Instagram explanation) What I regret, what I don't, and what I really want women in midlife to know before going under the knife How I finally ended up needing my L5-S1 disc replaced (ouch… and also, wow) The things that are ACTUALLY helping me recover like red light, peptides, compression, hydration, and walking (even when it feels like dragging a noodle-leg down the street) If you're navigating surgery, chronic pain, or even just frustrated that your body feels like it's falling apart faster than your favorite jeans... this episode is for you. Want the full list of what I'm using in recovery? Grab my free Surgery Recovery & Healing Guide [insert link here] And come hang with me on Instagram @nataliejillfit where I'm sharing the good, the bad, and the bloated (yep, that too).   Episode Links:  Surgical Recovery Guide with all things mentioned in the show  GetRapidRecovery.com    The REDLIGHT I am using daily :https://get.sunlighten.com/nataliered   Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com   Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit   For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/  Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen.  Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.

On Episode 542 of Spittin' Chiclets, The guys are joined by recently traded Martin Necas (in an interview recorded before the trade) to discuss growing up not getting a lot of ice-time, Winning worlds in Czech at home, how Rod the Bod helped him improve and much more. But first, we had to get to the blockbuster trades that went down this week as well the J.T. Miller drama in Vancouver. Later on, Patty Maroon sat down with us in Chicago before the Winter Classic to talk about how he got cut from the flyers, Teemu Selanne's influence on him, Playing toronto in the playoffs and much more. Marchand choked out Nick Cousins on the Ice, Whit jinxed Team Sweden, and Biz's L5 S1 has put him in a blender, what else is new in chiclets land? All this and more on this weeks episode, you won't want to miss it. 00:00:00 - START 00:00:25 - Chiclets Updates 00:13:42 - Trade Drama 00:39:29 - Martin Necas Interview 01:24:59 - Around the League 01:51:55 - Patrick Maroon Interview 02:48:53 - Quick Hits Support the Show: PINK WHITNEY: Take Your Shot with Pink Whitney RHOBACK: Use code CHICLETS on https://rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first purchase through the end of this week ROCKETMONEY: Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at https://RocketMoney.com/CHICLETS today.  BODYARMOR: Get your BODYARMOR Sports Drink today at Walmart or a local grocery store near you! https://www.walmart.com/brand/bodyarmor/shop-all-bodyarmor/10009869 DRAFTKINGS: GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. Max. $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: dkng.co/dk-offer-terms. Ends 2/9/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.You can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/schiclets