Question
Dear Dr Starbuck
a month ago I damaged my back by lifting a weight and twisting at the same time. The physiotherapist I have been seeing says that I have probably squeezed a disc. This caused a lot of lower back pain due to spasms around the spine and consequently sciatic type pain down both legs. The muscles have since relaxed off after having Diazepam and Codeine from my doctor. My legs still ache when I stand up and I have pain in one hip but the pain in my back is minimal and I find that I can arch my back quite well. I am unsure whether I should return to work. I am a teacher and spend 5 hours a day standing up. I sometimes have to lift things such as piles of books and find myself leaning over the work of my pupils in order to mark it. Do you think I would be asking for trouble by returning to work whilst my legs are still aching?

Answer
Actually, standing is better for you than sitting when it comes to disc problems.  The most pressure placed on the discs is in a seated position.  I would say it was OK to return to work, you just have to be cautious about bending over to observe your pupils.  As long as you are careful, no sudden movement and twist, you should be fine.

Dr. Starbuck