Hi

I injured my back quite badly lifting at work 12 weeks ago - bulged my L5/S1 disk.

This weekend I was able to start running properly again - 10K yesterday and 5 miles today, pain free. Prior to this I'd just done some short runs to get going again.

I just wanted to share with you how wonderful it was to be back running again. Also to say to anyone who is currently injured and depressed by it - you will beat it and return to running. Although I was lucky with my injury and it wasn't too severe, and my layoff was relatively short, there were times when I seemed to be making no progress. The sciatic pain seemed destined to return whenever I did too much or tried running again.

I found a really good sports physiotherapist and worked hard on core exercises and swimming etc. Basically I followed the prescribed rehabilitation to the letter and tried to be patient. I also went for acupuncture sessions.

Of course compared to the conditions some people have to deal with this is nothing. A bulged disk is always likely to be a weakness I'll have to watch out for and I might yet have a relapse but right now....I'm back!