Herniated Disk -- How bad is too bad?

[macorn63]

This was me a couple of weeks ago, after taking 2 weeks off for the flu.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApK7B2I8-1E

Had been working on form for a long time, building up to about 405 before a back injury would cause me to reset, and reevaluate my form. (Tight hams forced rounding)

Fast forward to last Monday, I was warming up when something (felt like) it broke in my back.

An MRI shows 2 herniated disks, and the fluid inside is completely gone.

I have searched and read that several people have successfully rehabbed from this type of injury, and went on to lift heavy, and that most people, including yourself have had back injuries.

No one in this forum really went into much detail as to the severity of their herniation (if there are degrees), and I got the impression that they weren't that bad.

For me this has been the most painful thing I have ever experienced.

If after rehab I continue my goal of working up to double body weight (570) am I just asking for trouble?

How severe would it have to be for you to advise against it?

Thanks for the advice.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Your rehab will direct your future goals. It's a little early now to decide between 570 and 555. Just get the thing healed up and train. You'll know what you can do and are willing to try when the time comes.