| Re: My friend really hurt his back - what don't I know?
Welcome to the board. I'm not clear on whether your friend has continued to have lower back pain ever since the injury?
The sudden pain sounds fairly typical for a disc herniation. The disc was initially hurt in the hockey episode, and probably somewhat weakened. Then as we go about our daily activities, the disc continues to weaken until there is a moment that turns out to be the "straw that broke the camel's back." People can herniated a disc when sneezing.
If this is what happened, the disc can heal without surgical intervention, but it does require some patience and discipline. No BLTs--bending, lifting, twisting. He should continue to use good posture and structural alignment and should get moderate exercise that doesn't tax the spine. He should work to strengthen the core and back as these muscles must be strong and balanced to maintain spinal integrity. A good diet is important as well as drinking lots of fluids.
You can find sites online that will show you exercises to strengthen the back and exercises for lumbar disc herniations. Your friend can use ice or heat, whichever feels best, and can take NSAIDs for any inflammation and pain he may have.
If the situation does not improve in 6-8 weeks, he should see a doctor. Read about lumbar disc herniation to learn more!
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