Help for injured back

The only exercise I ever really enjoyed was running

However last year I herniated a disk at the base of my spine.  Unfortunately it is damaged for life

I had a circle root block to stop the severe nerve pain in my leg, but short of removing the disk there is nothing else can be done

Anyone else suffered this - what exercise do you do :

a) to strengthen your back

b) To loose weight / stay fit

Cheers

Pilates will do wonders for your back and get into shape.

Wow we have a lot in common.  I too am 39, and I had two herniated disks.  I did have surgery for them and now my back is fused.  So working out is very difficult.  My disk are L3 - L4  and L4 - L5. 

I use the treadmill or walk outdoors.  I do plenty of hand weights.  Also I am very consistent with the floor exercises that my physical therapist taught me during my surgeries and recovery. 

If you can visit a physical therapist to learn what is best for you.

Good Luck!  I know how difficult it is.

I have some floor exercises for my back - but I admit to not being as regular with them as I should be

I've bee thinking about swimming as a low impact exercise to minimise back stress