Question
About 6 months ago I was "diagnosed" through MRI with 2 bulging disks (C 5-7). This greatly affected the ability to work out. I suddenly lost a significant amount of strength in my left Tricepts, back, and left pec. I dropped at least 7+ pounds. I am unable to lift anywhere near what I used to in such lifts as: bench, incline, pullups, dips, pulldowns, etc. Its not a matter of "trying harder" or "pushing past it". It seems like my left side in the areas of tri / pec/ back are not getting what they need, to do what they are supposed to (right side is fine). Could it be something else that maybe I pulled or tore in my back? Does the Infraspinatus have anything to do with these muscles? Sometimes I feel like I have torn something as my left side just "gives out" during lifts. I am working with much less weight these days (frustrating). Im 44 so I know age will take its toll... but 6 months ago I was benching 230 and now I can barely do 95 all because of one side of my body, I can no longer do dips or pull ups without "assistance" because of my left pec / tri. What else could possibly be affecting me besides the bulging disk / pinched nerve? Is this normal? I have no real "day to day" pain from the bulge as that has passed. Help? Thanks!

Answer
curt,
sorry it has taken me awhile to respond.
Your infraspinatus is a muscle. all your muscles are controlled by motor nerves that exit from the spine. bulged discs can cause pressure on the nerves and cause muscle weakness. you should be doing 2 or 3 things.
1: traction of the cervical spine (neck)
2: chiropractic care
3: cold laser (this will help your recovery speed up significantly)
disc bulges can correct themselves over time but you need to see your chiropractor to make sure the spine is in alignment and the pressure on the motor nerves is removed.
ps- stop lifting weights for a few weeks at least.

David Kulla, DC, CN
SynergyWellnessNy.com
new york city