What can be done for a L5 S 1 bulging disc ?

@lillym: Years ago X-rays showed 2bulging discs in my spine (lower back). I lost about 20 pounds, wore a back brace, had one cortisone shot at disc spine area, used a walker for support and security, took anti-inflammatory, applied heat & ice and kept moving. When the pain eased I increased my activity slowly, joined a yoga class to strengthen back muscles and now added TaiChi to my schedule.
I am so sorry to relate to the excruciating pain, inability to move freely and loss of independence.
Have you seen an orthopedic specialist to consult with your Xray may give options for treatment/medication to overcome this painful condition? They see cases like this everyday and can give you best advice.
I know you are in pain and reading my successful saga does not help, but it is a road that worked for me.

I had the C456 and need to have done the L456. In my neck they put metal bracers and spacers in. I was 3 months in a neck brace. It's almost 2 years now and the only problem I have is my neck muscles are a little weak.
It depends on the doctor what your specific problem is. I was bone on bone with cracking in the neck. The lower back operation, he says I will have a full brace for 3 months then an expandable brace for the following 3 months.

There are many options. Speak with a recommended spine doctor in your area. My is fantastic. Best of luck.

Thanks for the comment. I have a appointment this Friday.

I have the L5S1 bulging disc problem and have had it for about a year now. I have been seeing a chiropractor and also in pt and both have improved the condition tremendously. The chiropractor focuses on keeping my spine straight through a method called Nucca (you can look it up) where they adjust only at the neck. I have been doing spinal decompression every week and now every other since last year, also at the chiropractors. The decompression stretches the spine and allows for the bulge to relax some reducing pain. I have had all of the same symptoms of pain down the extremities, numbness, etc. etc. and chiropractic along with PT (strengthening the back to take the load off of the L5S1) have allowed me to go for walks and be active again with minimal symptoms. I have also used cold laser called Erchonia for pain reduction and cell regeneration. I am sorry for your symptoms but you can improve tremendously but you will need to prioritize your health over an above all else. Also, the tx mentioned may or may not be covered by insurance. I hope this is helpful.

welcome to the group,
i did a few years back get a couple of cortisone shots into the area of my bulging discs. it did help. have to have a good doctor and follow protocol explicitly. but it did help. exercises at a later date to improve the core muscles could get stronger to help. a long road is all i can say but worth it.

Yes, PT and Pilates for core strength

thank you for the input for core strength exercise names. and your opinion, it matters when people agree , id rather build on the core than the alternative choices that i had been given,
have a wonderful day.