NewsOswalt gets second opinion on back
Core-strengthening exercises recommended for righty
By Brian McTaggart / MLB.com
09/24/09 6:57 PM ET
HOUSTON -- Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt has been advised to continue his core-strengthening exercises after undergoing an examination on his ailing back Thursday in Dallas.Oswalt, who was shut down after his Sept. 15 start in Cincinnati, sought a second opinion on his back from by Dr. Andrew Dossett at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas. Dossett concurred with the initial diagnosis provided by the Houston medical staff, and the right-hander is expected to be ready by Spring Training.
Last week in Houston, Dr. Mike McCann diagnosed Oswalt with a bulging disk and inflammation of a joint in his lower back.
Oswalt, 32, went 8-6 with a 4.12 ERA in 30 starts before being shut down. He battled back pain in his final four starts of 2009.
Oswalt has been dealing with a bulging disk in his back since 2007. The disk is pushing against a nerve that descends down Oswalt's left leg and has been causing hip pain and loss of feeling in his left leg. McCann recommended Oswalt begin a swimming regimen to strengthen his core, while cutting cut back on running.
Brian McTaggart is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
