Is it bad that I choose not to workout anymore? (8 months post op)
I (40m) had my MD surgery 8 months ago (L5-S1). All has been amazing since I woke up from the operation, I can happily say I'm pain free.
But I did realise I can still get a flare up if I push it too much.
I've had two flare ups since, the first was a big scare. I thought I had re-herinated, I was at the gym 2 months post op. Doc said "no limits" after the check in call, so I tried working on my core with barbell squats, no weight, just the bar. I felt a weird feeling in my leg and flared up pretty bad after that.
I've learned that the nerve is still angry, I had sciatica for 4 years, so it was probably pretty damaged. I only found out what it actually was after 3 years of pain. I think I kept aggravating it by gyming all the time and never really let the disc heal I guess..
So basically, my theory is, maybe it's best for now, if I just stick to walking, and some stretches/planking? And quit the gym for at least the next year?
Or is it essential to go to the gym and do PT sessions and big core workouts? I just want to make sure I'm doing the right thing. Need advice.