Kendo and Lumbar disc herniations

Hi,


Almost two years ago I had a surgery for a lumbar disc herniations (L5-S1) the disc slipped out about 1cm so they had to cut it out.
It took several months to start to walk again without limping.
Now I feel perfectly fine a part of a bit of stiffness to the left calf muscle in the morning from time to time.
The doctor who made the surgery and the physiotherapist I visited during the rehabilitation suggested me I should strength the muscles of the lumbar area but a part of that I should be able to do whatever I like.


I would like to start practicing Kendo but since it is an asymmetric activity involving a lot of fast and improvise movements I was wondering if it could cause another herniation in the same area.


According to my experience, one of the first signals of an incoming lumbar herniation is an annoying pain on the side gluteal area.
Is there a way to distinguish between this pain and a common muscle pain in that area connected to a normal workout?


Thanks a lot.


Luigi

Hi Luigi!

Are you already getting the gluteal pain or everything is ok? If you have had common muscle pain before (DOMS - delayed onset muscle soreness) then you know that it normally shows up after a day or two of unaccustomed or increased activity and only lasts up to 72 hours (although sometimes slightly longer) and the muscles feel very stiff, sore and sometimes very warm as well. Herniated disc produces most likely irritating pain which may not be constant, depending on the activity (as you most probably know due to your experience). However this can vary from individual to individual. Have you had recently any check ups? Stiff calf muscle may be associated with lumbar nerve irritation, you should get it checked out.

Regards

Monika