Hi all,
10 years ago my L5S1 disc prolapsed which affected my left leg severely, and I had to undergo a discectomy to remove the prolapsed portion of the disc, and to also remove some of the vertebrae.
As I result of this I have been left with S1/S2 nerve damage that has caused constant numbness in my left little toe, and am unable to “push off” my that leg anywhere near as well as I can with my unaffected right leg. My hamstring and calve in my left leg are shot - I’d hazard a guess that it has about 50% of the strength of the right left from those muscles. This has affected my ability to run/jog, cycle etc, but also is noticeable when I train legs.
Does anyone have any advice as to how I might look to train my legs with the difference in strength/ability across both legs, so that I do not let the weaker one hinder progress of the strong one?
Although I have been lifting weights for the past 2 years I have always been under the impression that the weaker leg would catch-up with the stronger leg eventually, however I read an article recently about S1/S2 nerve damage that alluded to the fact that the nerves will never recover, and as a result my muscle strength in my left leg will never improve.
I can accept that, but I would love to continue working out my legs - I am just aware that there is a significant difference in strength between both and I am confused as to how to go forwards.
Currently I high-bar squat and deadlift, covering both legs together, but also hamstring curl each leg separately - this is where I notice the difference. Is it better for me to work the two legs (hamstrings and calves) seperately and progress seperately? Or work them together and use the right leg to “protect” the left leg?
Thanks in advance for any replies - the podcasts/videos on your YouTube channel have been a huge influence, I’d even go so far as to say they have changed my life in some respects!
Cris