Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 8/28/2008

Question
Dear Dr. Newhart,
The bottom three discs in my lumbar spine are bulged.  The bottom disc is bulged moderately; enough to be pushing against my spinal cord, and is causing moderate to severe lower back and leg pain as well as numbness and a slight decrease in muscular function in my right leg.  The other two discs are hardly bulged at all, and aren't pushing against any nerves.  I have been told by my Chiropractor that there has been some loss of moisture in this problematic disc, and he has also informed me that it cannot be replenished.  Is this 100% accurate?

I'm a bit desperate as I am a world-class athlete and have not been able to compete for the past 10 months (including the Beijing Olympics that recently took place.)  
My sport is known as BMX SuperCross, and it entails rather large bicycle jumps that jar my back quite a bit.  
Is there any way that I will be able to compete at an international level again?  If so, what treatments would you recommend?

I should also note that over the past 10 months, since the injury took place, it has not improved noticeably.  Any moderate amount of physical activity (not including running, lifting or jarring of any sort of course,) leaves me in pain.

I'm sure you're a busy man, so I understand if you do not get the chance to have a look at this.  If you do you have my sincerest gratitude.  

--Patrick

Answer
Patrick,
I completely understand your sport and your dilemma.  You may want to try a practitioner of the McKenzie method.  It is a whole system of diagnosing and treating disc issues.  If it can be resolved, that would be your best bet.  You may still be able to compete at your former level after a round of treatment and a good rehab program.