Elsie,
What kind of deadlifts do you do? I have a herniation at L5S1. My PT has told me that deadlifts are a no no. I have been warned that any hyper extension movement "shears" the spine.
I have only done Cathe style deadlifts. What type are you finding works for your condition? The kind that are a heavy lift off the floor?
I have been working long and hard to build my glutes, but am always fearful of further damaging my back and SI joint. I have not done any of Cathes deadlifts in over a year, and my back thanks me.
I would love to hear your thoughts, since you seem to be having positive results.
Thanks!
I have (congenital- discovered at 17 yrs) c-curve scoliosis starting at T4. I also have degenerative cervical/neck discs diagnosed at 24 yrs. And (geez this list is getting long! LOL) coccyx arthritis. So, not the same spinal areas as you have been managing. Honestly, I would get another opinion of a different PT or Occupational T before proceeding.
I started with a very specific DL - Jeffersons. This was my "rehab" phase DL's. Then I moved up to mainly single straight leg (not very heavy) and sumo block pulls (heavy - 4 reps max), while still incorporating Jeffersons. I don't have these blocks, so I used weight plates. Sumo block pulls emphasize the thoracic (and upper lumbar) spine.
I am very pleased that now I can execute nearly any DL (except close stance leg ones - do not have the mobility in my hips and ankles for it). DLs seriously helped me build up overall back stamina and strengthen my weak thoracic area. Along with therapeutic band work. Suspension training is optimal for this type of thing as well, but for some reason, my body just didn't respond so well to it. I kept hurting other areas like chest etc. I know I am being a hypocrite here cause my chiro rec
no lifting. He said to go with suspension training and pilates only. I'd been practicing pilates already & kept it up although just for brief sessions (stabilized my uneven ribs). So, yeah, I went against advice & it worked out well for me, but if I would have hurt myself, then it would have been my own darn stubborn fault!!
If your back likes you more when you avoid DLs, hey, listen to it. But if not & you want to get back to them, you could just see another for a second opinion & take it from there.
You've been dealing with back issues, so you know when to go slow.
Sorry for the long-windedness ....just felt it would be irresponsible not to give more of the story! lol.
https://www.dellanave.com/how-and-why-to-do-a-jefferson-deadlift/
http://www.exrx.net/WeightExercises/ErectorSpinae/BBSumoBlockPull.html
http://tonygentilcore.com/2015/06/rotation-helps-improve-si-joint-pain-a-doctor-even-says-so/