I have had some of my disc come out. And I have multi-level degenerative disc disease (worst ones atm in all regions of my spine: neck, mid back, and lumbar).

Well, I think for a man, it's harder being this way. In terms of society and if they have more physical jobs (prior to getting back issues). Sometimes I tell people I have back problems and need help lifting a 'whatever' in public asking for assistance. Other times I don't even need to get that far in the conversation as chivalry is not dead in the world and some heroic gent will lift my stuff for me to save the day (and save herendous back pain from doing stuff I should not).

You have good advice on PT. And the lbs fitting. It really sux when you are limited and have to change how you do the activities you once loved. But, being in constant pain not being able to do anything really sux more. That is my resolve. I make the most of what I can do--and make my mind up that I am going to be happy about it. Crying in a corner being depressed wasn't working so well for me, thus I took a new approach.

I ride my road bike bar and saddle even. On the hoods, I'm pretty straight spined. I'm bike shopping now, and I have to keep my back in mind. In spin class I ride handle bars further up to give my back a break. I went to PT. Huge help and education. I left my desk job that required me to sit for long periods of time (very bad for disc compression pain). I practice "abdominal bracing" all the time (contracting abs in tight--supports back). My abs are like a rock--helps to support my disc. Strong legs also equal a healthy back--use the legs to lift properly in a squat--not round/bend the disc over.

Errr... mtb, well ya gotta be careful. Even with suspension, it's a lot of jarring. Plus, the crash and twist the spine factor is a bad thing. I ride the easy trail stuff on my hard-trail mtb, and dismount on things that are questionable for my skill level. Peeps think I'm a wuss... well, I would be crying in pain for months with a disc blown out. He could ride with me--I understand.

Don't let him get bummed that he has to give up riding... modification can work wonders for things. It has to start with the mind first.

Good Luck!