Seeking Advice on Peptides/SARMs for Recovery & Strength Rebuilding

[T.natty]

Hey everyone,

I wanted to reach out to this community because I’m looking into starting a peptide and/or SARM cycle to help with recovery and rebuilding strength, but I could really use some guidance from those with experience.

A little background on my situation—I’ve had two back surgeries due to football injuries. The first one didn’t heal correctly, which led to me needing a second laminectomy (lower S-1). It’s been about three months since that surgery, but I’m already experiencing similar nerve pain in my left leg again, just like before the operation. It’s been incredibly frustrating because I’ve been stuck in a cycle of inactivity due to pain, and as a result, my weight has plummeted. I was 205 lbs before surgery, and now I’m down to 165, losing muscle rapidly.

I used to be extremely active in the gym, but ever since this second surgery, the combination of pain, slow progress, and drastic weight loss has been killing my motivation. I also used to be a regular pot smoker, but in the last month, I completely quit because I felt like it was contributing to my lack of drive. Now, I just want to do whatever it takes to get back on track and start feeling like myself again.

Right now, I’m strongly considering BPC-157 and TB-500 to aid in recovery and prevent further damage. I’d like to know if taking them together is the best approach or if I should start with one first. Also, for those who have used them—what’s the best injection site for lower-back recovery? I’ve read about subcutaneous injections in the stomach, glutes, or near the injury site but would love to hear from people who have experience with this.

On top of that, I’m also looking into SARMs or other peptides to help regain strength and muscle mass. I’ve done some research on HGH, LGD-4033, MK-677, and Ostarine, but with so many options out there, I’m not sure what would be best for my situation. Can any of these be stacked together, or should they be cycled separately? My priority is recovery and regaining strength without putting more strain on my back.

I know there are a lot of knowledgeable people here, so I’d really appreciate any insights or recommendations. I want to make sure I approach this the right way rather than just jumping into something without fully understanding it. I really don’t want to go down the path of another surgery, especially at just 21 years old, so I’m hoping I can find a way to heal and rebuild properly.

If anyone has experience with these compounds—especially for injury recovery and muscle retention—I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer!

-T
Email: t.natty@proton.me

 

[BC22]

Hey everyone,

I wanted to reach out to this community because I’m looking into starting a peptide and/or SARM cycle to help with recovery and rebuilding strength, but I could really use some guidance from those with experience.

A little background on my situation—I’ve had two back surgeries due to football injuries. The first one didn’t heal correctly, which led to me needing a second laminectomy (lower S-1). It’s been about three months since that surgery, but I’m already experiencing similar nerve pain in my left leg again, just like before the operation. It’s been incredibly frustrating because I’ve been stuck in a cycle of inactivity due to pain, and as a result, my weight has plummeted. I was 205 lbs before surgery, and now I’m down to 165, losing muscle rapidly.

I used to be extremely active in the gym, but ever since this second surgery, the combination of pain, slow progress, and drastic weight loss has been killing my motivation. I also used to be a regular pot smoker, but in the last month, I completely quit because I felt like it was contributing to my lack of drive. Now, I just want to do whatever it takes to get back on track and start feeling like myself again.

Right now, I’m strongly considering BPC-157 and TB-500 to aid in recovery and prevent further damage. I’d like to know if taking them together is the best approach or if I should start with one first. Also, for those who have used them—what’s the best injection site for lower-back recovery? I’ve read about subcutaneous injections in the stomach, glutes, or near the injury site but would love to hear from people who have experience with this.

On top of that, I’m also looking into SARMs or other peptides to help regain strength and muscle mass. I’ve done some research on HGH, LGD-4033, MK-677, and Ostarine, but with so many options out there, I’m not sure what would be best for my situation. Can any of these be stacked together, or should they be cycled separately? My priority is recovery and regaining strength without putting more strain on my back.

I know there are a lot of knowledgeable people here, so I’d really appreciate any insights or recommendations. I want to make sure I approach this the right way rather than just jumping into something without fully understanding it. I really don’t want to go down the path of another surgery, especially at just 21 years old, so I’m hoping I can find a way to heal and rebuild properly.

If anyone has experience with these compounds—especially for injury recovery and muscle retention—I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer!

-T
Email: t.natty@proton.me

I’ve used TB and BPC together for elbow tendinitis. I honestly can’t say whether it helped or not….I definitely healed but no clue if it was just time or the peptides.

Having had 2 back surgeries as well for similar issues I feel your pain man. It sucks. 2 years after the first the nerve pain in my leg came back and I had to have a second surgery. Hopefully you can find something that helps and get back to the grind!

 

[Theotherone55]

Yes to BPC + TB.
No to the SARMS. Switch that for TRT dose of test.
Possible look into low dose GH.

 

[Meetketchup]

Yes to BPC + TB.
No to the SARMS. Switch that for TRT dose of test.
Possible look into low dose GH.

Do this OP.

 

[T.natty]

I’ve used TB and BPC together for elbow tendinitis. I honestly can’t say whether it helped or not….I definitely healed but no clue if it was just time or the peptides.

Having had 2 back surgeries as well for similar issues I feel your pain man. It sucks. 2 years after the first the nerve pain in my leg came back and I had to have a second surgery. Hopefully you can find something that helps and get back to the grind!

Thanks, man. It really does suck, especially knowing that nerve pain can creep back even after surgery. That’s exactly what I’m worried about. I’m trying to be proactive with recovery, but it’s hard to tell what actually makes a difference. If you don’t mind me asking, did you do anything differently after your second surgery to prevent it from happening again?

 

[T.natty]

Yes to BPC + TB.
No to the SARMS. Switch that for TRT dose of test.
Possible look into low dose GH.

I've been back and forth on SARMs because the information out there is so mixed. Some people claim they're a safer alternative to steroids, while others say they suppress natural testosterone just as much, if not worse, without providing the same benefits. Plus, I’ve read that SARMs can wreck lipid profiles, cause serious suppression, and even have liver toxicity issues. Given all that, I’m wondering if they’re really worth the risk—especially if TRT is a more stable and effective option in the long run.


One of my biggest concerns is my natural production. At 21, I know my body is still producing a solid amount of testosterone, and I don’t want to screw that up while I’m still developing. From what I’ve read, SARMs can shut me down without actually replacing my test levels like TRT would, which sounds like the worst-case scenario. If I start TRT now, would it be impossible to restart my natural production later, or is there a way to recover if I ever decide to come off? I definitely don’t want to make a decision I’ll regret in my late 20s or 30s—I want kids down the line.


If I go the TRT route, I want to make sure I’m doing it the right way and not rushing into something that could permanently shut me down at 21. Do you think getting bloodwork first is absolutely necessary before starting? If so, what specific markers should I be looking at? I have a guy who can run my labs with no questions asked.


For HGH, I’ve seen a lot of recommendations for Ace Labs and Ironlion. Would you say one is more reputable than the other, or is there a better source I should consider? Also, if I go with low-dose GH, what kind of dosage are we talking about here? I want to make sure I’m getting the most out of it while keeping things safe.

 

[BC22]

Thanks, man. It really does suck, especially knowing that nerve pain can creep back even after surgery. That’s exactly what I’m worried about. I’m trying to be proactive with recovery, but it’s hard to tell what actually makes a difference. If you don’t mind me asking, did you do anything differently after your second surgery to prevent it from happening again?

Yup I made some huge life changes. I was extremely overweight. I weighed in for my second surgery at 310 pounds. That was my breaking point. As soon as I recovered from surgery I started eating better and exercising. Lost 100 pounds within a year and now sit around 196 pounds. Losing weight and getting stronger made a huge difference.

 

[T.natty]

Yes to BPC + TB.
No to the SARMS. Switch that for TRT dose of test.
Possible look into low dose GH.

I've been back and forth on SARMs because the information out there is so mixed. Some people claim they're a safer alternative to steroids, while others say they suppress natural testosterone just as much, if not worse, without providing the same benefits. Plus, I’ve read that SARMs can wreck lipid profiles, cause serious suppression, and even have liver toxicity issues. Given all that, I’m wondering if they’re really worth the risk—especially if TRT is a more stable and effective option in the long run.


One of my biggest concerns is my natural production. At 21, I know my body is still producing a solid amount of testosterone, and I don’t want to screw that up while I’m still developing. From what I’ve read, SARMs can shut me down without actually replacing my test levels like TRT would, which sounds like the worst-case scenario. If I start TRT now, would it be impossible to restart my natural production later, or is there a way to recover if I ever decide to come off? I definitely don’t want to make a decision I’ll regret in my late 20s or 30s—I want kids down the line.


If I go the TRT route, I want to make sure I’m doing it the right way and not rushing into something that could permanently shut me down at 21. Do you think getting bloodwork first is absolutely necessary before starting? If so, what specific markers should I be looking at? I have a guy who can run my labs with no questions asked.


For HGH, I’ve seen a lot of recommendations for Ace Labs and Ironlion. Would you say one is more reputable than the other, or is there a better source I should consider? Also, if I go with low-dose GH, what kind of dosage are we talking about here? I want to make sure I’m getting the most out of it while keeping things safe.

Do this OP.

Appreciate the advice! I’ve seen a lot of mixed opinions on SARMs, so I’m curious—why not SARMs? Is it just the suppression, or are there other risks that make them not worth it?


For GH, what kind of low dose are we talking? I’ve seen recommendations all over the place, so I’d love to hear what’s actually effective without going overboard. Also, any preference between Ace Labs and Ironlion for sourcing?

 

[T.natty]

Yup I made some huge life changes. I was extremely overweight. I weighed in for my second surgery at 310 pounds. That was my breaking point. As soon as I recovered from surgery I started eating better and exercising. Lost 100 pounds within a year and now sit around 196 pounds. Losing weight and getting stronger made a huge difference.

Appreciate the input! When you were dealing with your elbow tendinitis, did you use anything besides BPC and TB? Any SARMs or other peptides that you found helpful, or did you just stick to those two?


Also, how long did it take before you noticed any improvement? I know healing can take time, but I’m curious if the peptides made a noticeable difference for you.
Thanks for a quick response my friend!
I really want GymNTonic to leave a reply on this post!

 

[BC22]

Appreciate the input! When you were dealing with your elbow tendinitis, did you use anything besides BPC and TB? Any SARMs or other peptides that you found helpful, or did you just stick to those two?


Also, how long did it take before you noticed any improvement? I know healing can take time, but I’m curious if the peptides made a noticeable difference for you.
Thanks for a quick response my friend!
I really want GymNTonic to leave a reply on this post!

I did not use anything else besides the BPC and TB. @dragon slayer has posted a protocol for healing my that I followed.

It was a solid few weeks before I noticed any improvement. It was my first time using either of those peptides and it was an injury I had not dealt with previously so it’s really tough for me to say whether it was the peptides or simply time that started the healing. I certainly don’t think it hurt at all and if I get injured again I wouldn’t hesitate to use those 2 again and see how it goes.

 

[T.natty]

I did not use anything else besides the BPC and TB. @dragon slayer has posted a protocol for healing my that I followed.

It was a solid few weeks before I noticed any improvement. It was my first time using either of those peptides and it was an injury I had not dealt with previously so it’s really tough for me to say whether it was the peptides or simply time that started the healing. I certainly don’t think it hurt at all and if I get injured again I wouldn’t hesitate to use those 2 again and see how it goes.

Got it, that makes sense. I appreciate the insight! Sometimes it’s hard to tell what’s actually working versus just natural healing over time. Either way, it’s good to hear that you’d use BPC and TB again if needed. I’ll have to check out @dragon slayer protocol and see if there’s anything I can apply to my situation. Thanks for sharing your experience!

 

[BC22]

Got it, that makes sense. I appreciate the insight! Sometimes it’s hard to tell what’s actually working versus just natural healing over time. Either way, it’s good to hear that you’d use BPC and TB again if needed. I’ll have to check out @dragon slayer’s protocol and see if there’s anything I can apply to my situation. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Anytime. Back pain sucks man. Give the peptides a try and see how it goes!

 

[T.natty]

Anytime. Back pain sucks man. Give the peptides a try and see how it goes!

Yeah, I hear you—back pain is no joke. Definitely going to give the peptides a shot and see if they help. Appreciate the support! I'll update in a few months!

 

[Theotherone55]

I've been back and forth on SARMs because the information out there is so mixed. Some people claim they're a safer alternative to steroids, while others say they suppress natural testosterone just as much, if not worse, without providing the same benefits. Plus, I’ve read that SARMs can wreck lipid profiles, cause serious suppression, and even have liver toxicity issues. Given all that, I’m wondering if they’re really worth the risk—especially if TRT is a more stable and effective option in the long run.


One of my biggest concerns is my natural production. At 21, I know my body is still producing a solid amount of testosterone, and I don’t want to screw that up while I’m still developing. From what I’ve read, SARMs can shut me down without actually replacing my test levels like TRT would, which sounds like the worst-case scenario. If I start TRT now, would it be impossible to restart my natural production later, or is there a way to recover if I ever decide to come off? I definitely don’t want to make a decision I’ll regret in my late 20s or 30s—I want kids down the line.


If I go the TRT route, I want to make sure I’m doing it the right way and not rushing into something that could permanently shut me down at 21. Do you think getting bloodwork first is absolutely necessary before starting? If so, what specific markers should I be looking at? I have a guy who can run my labs with no questions asked.


For HGH, I’ve seen a lot of recommendations for Ace Labs and Ironlion. Would you say one is more reputable than the other, or is there a better source I should consider? Also, if I go with low-dose GH, what kind of dosage are we talking about here? I want to make sure I’m getting the most out of it while keeping things safe.

Appreciate the advice! I’ve seen a lot of mixed opinions on SARMs, so I’m curious—why not SARMs? Is it just the suppression, or are there other risks that make them not worth it?


For GH, what kind of low dose are we talking? I’ve seen recommendations all over the place, so I’d love to hear what’s actually effective without going overboard. Also, any preference between Ace Labs and Ironlion for sourcing?

Not trying to come off like a rude asshole...but no, there are no mixed reviews or mixed info.
They are as suppressive and as dangerous as regular old gear. If anyone tells you anything otherwise, chances are they are either trying to A. sell you something or B. they're 18 years old and just cant find real gear. They are less studied and most of the time deliver less results than just your average oral. Now if you told me you were nervous about the legality thing of gear...it would be a different discussion. But even that has significantly died down now that TRT is widely accepted in mainstream media.

And you know what, i take fault for not realizing you are actually 21 years old. That's my mistake and honestly, it changes my recommednaton for you. IF I WERE YOU, i would skip the TRT and GH and just do some BPC + TB. That's it. If you are concerned about fucking your hormones up and dont see yourself on drugs for the rest of your life, skip the whole test thing. Test would be good if you are ready to go down the life long path, which it doesnt sound like you are. Also, a TRT dose would be a waste for you. At 21 you are probably in the high test production limits any way, whyyy stop your own test production just to give you exogenous test at the same levels you probably already make? No reason to do this. And same with GH. To be honest, i rand GH in my 20s (low dosed as it was all i could afford) and i didnt see much. Why? Because i was already making a fair amount and it was a waste. GH is a great benefit as you age, but not now for you. What you want is healing...your body is fucked up and you need a little extra help with inflammation and recovery, a la BPC/TB.

 

[T.natty]

Not trying to come off like a rude asshole...but no, there are no mixed reviews or mixed info.
They are as suppressive and as dangerous as regular old gear. If anyone tells you anything otherwise, chances are they are either trying to A. sell you something or B. they're 18 years old and just cant find real gear. They are less studied and most of the time deliver less results than just your average oral. Now if you told me you were nervous about the legality thing of gear...it would be a different discussion. But even that has significantly died down now that TRT is widely accepted in mainstream media.

And you know what, i take fault for not realizing you are actually 21 years old. That's my mistake and honestly, it changes my recommednaton for you. IF I WERE YOU, i would skip the TRT and GH and just do some BPC + TB. That's it. If you are concerned about fucking your hormones up and dont see yourself on drugs for the rest of your life, skip the whole test thing. Test would be good if you are ready to go down the life long path, which it doesnt sound like you are. Also, a TRT dose would be a waste for you. At 21 you are probably in the high test production limits any way, whyyy stop your own test production just to give you exogenous test at the same levels you probably already make? No reason to do this. And same with GH. To be honest, i rand GH in my 20s (low dosed as it was all i could afford) and i didnt see much. Why? Because i was already making a fair amount and it was a waste. GH is a great benefit as you age, but not now for you. What you want is healing...your body is fucked up and you need a little extra help with inflammation and recovery, a la BPC/TB.

Got it, my mistake! I completely see your point now. So, just to clarify, you’re saying that at 21, I should stick with BPC and TB, and not even think about SARMs, TRT, or GH, right? You’re also saying that those things aren’t worth it at my age, especially since my body is probably already producing enough test naturally.


And just to be clear, you’re not coming across as an asshole at all. I really appreciate your honest feedback. I’m just trying to learn all of this and it’s been tough to find reliable sources for information. Everyone’s got their own opinion, and it’s hard to figure out what’s actually good for me, especially at my age. I don’t want to be that guy at 21 running a bunch of random stuff just for short-term results and end up messing myself up long-term.


I know some of these SARMs or peptides could pose maybe some risks, but I’m definitely down for a little risk. Like I mentioned in my original post, I’ve lost over 40 pounds in the last few months, and it’s been mentally taxing losing all of those gains. I’ve actually run some oral SARMs in the past, and they were definitely the strongest I’ve ever felt—I was dead-lifting 425 lbs at 16, which may have played a part in my back injuries, but I want to get back to that original strength. I really want to see some progress again, as it’s hard mentally dealing with the loss of those gains, if that makes sense.


I also want to mention that I’ve got some money to drop on this and I’m fully prepared to invest in what’s necessary for recovery and gains. I have all the gear needed for mixing and doing sub-Q injections, and I’m completely comfortable with it. I’ve got a mentor who’s been out of the game for a while, but he knows the basics extremely well and has been guiding me through the process. So, I’m ready to take the next step if it makes sense for my goals.


So, with that in mind, do you think BPC and TB are the best route? And for someone looking to gain back strength, would any SARMs like LGD-4033, MK-677, or Ostarine be worth considering, or is it better to just avoid them altogether? Thanks again for taking the time to help me out and being straight with me!

 

[Wardamn]

You're 21. You should take time and Physical therapy to recover. Not SARMS.

 

[T.natty]

You're 21. You should take time and Physical therapy to recover. Not SARMS.

I get that you think PT is the answer, but honestly, I find it pretty dismissive to just say, “You’re 21, do PT” like I haven’t already been grinding through that for years. Let me break it down for you—I did physical therapy after my first surgery. Not just for a couple of months, but for two full years. And guess what? It didn’t prevent me from needing a second surgery. If PT was some kind of magic bullet, I wouldn’t have ended up back on the operating table in the first place.


Now, after my second surgery, I’ve again been doing PT for two months with no real progress. And before you jump in with, “Oh, maybe try a different PT,” I’ve already worked with multiple therapists, different approaches, different programs—you name it, I’ve tried it. The fact is, PT alone isn’t cutting it. I’m not some lazy guy looking for a shortcut—I’ve put in the work, and I’m still stuck in the same cycle.


What really gets me is the hypocrisy. You’re telling me to just “stick to PT” and not touch SARMs, but let’s be real—you’re on some kind of cycle yourself, right? So why is it okay for you to use gear to enhance your progress, but the second I look into something that might actually help my body heal, suddenly I’m making the wrong choice? I’m not talking about hopping on some reckless cocktail of random compounds—I’m looking at BPC-157 and TB-500, peptides that have actual regenerative properties and are used for injury recovery. This isn’t about getting jacked overnight—it’s about avoiding another major surgery and finally healing the right way.


I’m 21, not invincible. My body has already taken a serious beating, and if there’s a legitimate way to repair the damage and prevent another operation, I’m going to take it seriously. What would you rather have me do? Keep wasting my time in PT that already failed me twice and cross my fingers that something magically changes? Because that’s not a strategy—that’s just stubbornness. I want to get back to where I was, and if that means exploring proven recovery aids that people have had actual success with, then that’s what I’m going to do.


So if you actually have something useful to add to the conversation, I’m all ears. But if all you’ve got is some cookie-cutter, “Just do PT, bro” response with zero context or consideration for my actual situation, then save it.

 

[Omoplata]

So, with that in mind, do you think BPC and TB are the best route? And for someone looking to gain back strength, would any SARMs like LGD-4033, MK-677, or Ostarine be worth considering, or is it better to just avoid them altogether? Thanks again for taking the time to help me out and being straight with me!

It was made extremely clear that your focus point is to take BPC + TB, recover, then literally weight train at a decent pace until you're back to "normal."

At 21 years of age, which is 8 years younger than me, you should make good strength gains. If you are not? Your training, nutrition or sleep are lacking. You are in your 20s. You do not need SARMs or even Testosterone.

Eat. Sleep. Workout Hard bro. It's as simple as breathing.

 

[T.natty]

It was made extremely clear that your focus point is to take BPC + TB, recover, then literally weight train at a decent pace until you're back to "normal."

At 21 years of age, which is 8 years younger than me, you should make good strength gains. If you are not? Your training, nutrition or sleep are lacking. You are in your 20s. You do not need SARMs or even Testosterone.

Eat. Sleep. Workout Hard bro. It's as simple as breathing.

Man, I get where you’re coming from, but you’re completely glossing over my situation like it’s just a matter of “eat, sleep, lift.” If it were that simple, I wouldn’t be here asking questions and trying to figure out the best way to actually recover. I didn’t just wake up one day and decide to hop on SARMs or peptides for fun—I’ve been through two surgeries and years of physical therapy, and I’m still dealing with the fallout. So forgive me if I’m not eager to just “train at a decent pace” when my body isn’t bouncing back the way a normal 21-year-old’s should.


And yeah, I get that I’m younger than you, but that doesn’t mean my body is magically going to heal itself just because I lift and eat more. I was making strength gains—I deadlifted 425 lbs at 16—but that kind of training is also probably part of what led to my injuries in the first place. Now, after losing over 40 lbs in the last few months, I’m trying to rebuild smart, not just blindly go back to the same approach that wrecked me before.


Also, I’m not just some kid trying to shortcut my way to a six-pack. I already know how to train, eat, and sleep properly—that’s not the issue here. The issue is getting my body to recover faster and more effectively so I can actually do those things at full capacity again. If peptides like BPC and TB can help with that, why wouldn’t I use them?


And as for SARMs or test—look, I’m not trying to run some ridiculous stack and kill myself. But after losing all this size and strength, I want to actually see results as I work my way back. If I’m fully recovered and still struggling to make gains despite training and eating properly, then yeah, I’m going to look at every option available. What would you do if you were in my position? Just sit around and hope for the best?


So if you have actual advice beyond “just lift bro,” I’d love to hear it. Otherwise, I’m going to keep doing my research and figure out the best path forward.

 

[Omoplata]

And as for SARMs or test—look, I’m not trying to run some ridiculous stack and kill myself. But after losing all this size and strength, I want to actually see results as I work my way back. If I’m fully recovered and still struggling to make gains despite training and eating properly, then yeah, I’m going to look at every option available. What would you do if you were in my position? Just sit around and hope for the best?

"I know there are a lot of knowledgeable people here, so I’d really appreciate any insights or recommendations. I want to make sure I approach this the right way rather than just jumping into something without fully understanding it. I really don’t want to go down the path of another surgery, especially at just 21 years old, so I’m hoping I can find a way to heal and rebuild properly." <- Your words.

In your position, I would listen to experienced lifters, veterans and realize this is a long game. You will lose gains and you will make them. Patience is what sets apart the athletic majority and the posers who just want to look good. You will look good, and at the cost of what, your long-term health?

Regardless, I understand you're affected deeply by how your health is. Most of us are, this is literally an Anabolic Steroid Forum. At 21, if you want to shut down your natural test production using SARMs, that as stated, have no research or greater effect than oral steroids, go ahead. You will do whatever you want.

Good luck to you.

 

[T.natty]

"I know there are a lot of knowledgeable people here, so I’d really appreciate any insights or recommendations. I want to make sure I approach this the right way rather than just jumping into something without fully understanding it. I really don’t want to go down the path of another surgery, especially at just 21 years old, so I’m hoping I can find a way to heal and rebuild properly." <- Your words.

In your position, I would listen to experienced lifters, veterans and realize this is a long game. You will lose gains and you will make them. Patience is what sets apart the athletic majority and the posers who just want to look good. You will look good, and at the cost of what, your long-term health?

Regardless, I understand you're affected deeply by how your health is. Most of us are, this is literally an Anabolic Steroid Forum. At 21, if you want to shut down your natural test production using SARMs, that as stated, have no research or greater effect than oral steroids, go ahead. You will do whatever you want.

Good luck to you.

Alright, man, I get where you’re coming from, and I respect that you’re trying to emphasize the long game. Trust me, I’m not out here just chasing aesthetics or looking for a quick fix. This isn’t some impulsive “I just want to look good” decision—I’m trying to heal, regain what I’ve lost, and avoid another surgery. If I could just “be patient” and let my body naturally recover, I would, but after two years of PT before my first surgery and another round of PT post-op with little progress, I’m looking at other options.


I never said I was just gonna blindly shut down my natural test for no reason—I’m asking questions, researching, and trying to understand what’s actually best for me. If that means staying away from SARMs because they’re a waste of time and suppression isn’t worth it, fine, that’s exactly the kind of insight I’m here for. But if there’s something out there that actually helps with recovery and muscle retention without screwing me over long-term, I want to know.

 

[Wardamn]

I get that you think PT is the answer, but honestly, I find it pretty dismissive to just say, “You’re 21, do PT” like I haven’t already been grinding through that for years. Let me break it down for you—I did physical therapy after my first surgery. Not just for a couple of months, but for two full years. And guess what? It didn’t prevent me from needing a second surgery. If PT was some kind of magic bullet, I wouldn’t have ended up back on the operating table in the first place.


Now, after my second surgery, I’ve again been doing PT for two months with no real progress. And before you jump in with, “Oh, maybe try a different PT,” I’ve already worked with multiple therapists, different approaches, different programs—you name it, I’ve tried it. The fact is, PT alone isn’t cutting it. I’m not some lazy guy looking for a shortcut—I’ve put in the work, and I’m still stuck in the same cycle.


What really gets me is the hypocrisy. You’re telling me to just “stick to PT” and not touch SARMs, but let’s be real—you’re on some kind of cycle yourself, right? So why is it okay for you to use gear to enhance your progress, but the second I look into something that might actually help my body heal, suddenly I’m making the wrong choice? I’m not talking about hopping on some reckless cocktail of random compounds—I’m looking at BPC-157 and TB-500, peptides that have actual regenerative properties and are used for injury recovery. This isn’t about getting jacked overnight—it’s about avoiding another major surgery and finally healing the right way.


I’m 21, not invincible. My body has already taken a serious beating, and if there’s a legitimate way to repair the damage and prevent another operation, I’m going to take it seriously. What would you rather have me do? Keep wasting my time in PT that already failed me twice and cross my fingers that something magically changes? Because that’s not a strategy—that’s just stubbornness. I want to get back to where I was, and if that means exploring proven recovery aids that people have had actual success with, then that’s what I’m going to do.


So if you actually have something useful to add to the conversation, I’m all ears. But if all you’ve got is some cookie-cutter, “Just do PT, bro” response with zero context or consideration for my actual situation, then save it.

You've somehow confused my comments with actually caring what you take.

I don't care whatsoever!!! You could take every SARM under the sun for all I care.

But taking time to fully heal a back injury is usually a good idea before you start taking performance enhancers and train to put on Size.

You should get back active in the gym for awhile and make sure you are physically before taking anything.

But like I said I don't care one way or the other what you do.

 

[Pulpfiction83]

I was a sarm goblin back in the day, when they came out I was all over them. Let me tell you what they actually do. While the results were and are impressive with some, they shut me down worse than any cycle of test ever did during my 20’s. They are terrible for your liver, and as someone stated above, not enough research on humans. The research is on rodents, now they do have like 2 (lgd and rad) which are still currently being studied, it’s still safer to go the anabolic route. Because of the suppression with sarms I ended up having to go on trt. So I would stick with the bpc tb combo for healing, that combo works phenomenally for recovery.

 

[T.natty]

I was a sarm goblin back in the day, when they came out I was all over them. Let me tell you what they actually do. While the results were and are impressive with some, they shut me down worse than any cycle of test ever did during my 20’s. They are terrible for your liver, and as someone stated above, not enough research on humans. The research is on rodents, now they do have like 2 (lgd and rad) which are still currently being studied, it’s still safer to go the anabolic route. Because of the suppression with sarms I ended up having to go on trt. So I would stick with the bpc tb combo for healing, that combo works phenomenally for recovery.

Yeah, I’ve heard similar things about SARMs—seemed promising at first, but the suppression and liver toxicity aren’t worth it. Definitely sounds like the anabolic route is the safer long-term play if someone is going that direction. I know there's so many mixed opinions that i just don't feel comfortable picking them as a "safe" route.


Right now, I’m just sticking to the BPC-157 and TB-500 combo for healing, so that’s my main focus for now. Maybe I’ll hop on something else down the line, but I’m not in a rush.


I’ve got a TRT doctor I’ve been talking to about all this, and luckily, he’s the type who won’t ask questions if you know your stuff. As long as he’s comfortable with it—whether he prescribes it or I source it elsewhere—he’ll keep up with my blood work and monitor everything closely.


If you were to go the anabolic route again, what would your approach be this time around if any?

 

[BC22]

Yeah, I’ve heard similar things about SARMs—seemed promising at first, but the suppression and liver toxicity aren’t worth it. Definitely sounds like the anabolic route is the safer long-term play if someone is going that direction. I know there's so many mixed opinions that i just don't feel comfortable picking them as a "safe" route.


Right now, I’m just sticking to the BPC-157 and TB-500 combo for healing, so that’s my main focus for now. Maybe I’ll hop on something else down the line, but I’m not in a rush.


I’ve got a TRT doctor I’ve been talking to about all this, and luckily, he’s the type who won’t ask questions if you know your stuff. As long as he’s comfortable with it—whether he prescribes it or I source it elsewhere—he’ll keep up with my blood work and monitor everything closely.


If you were to go the anabolic route again, what would your approach be this time around if any?

Do you actually NEED TRT? At 21 years old I’d be surprised if your testosterone levels were truly low.

 

[Pulpfiction83]

Yeah, I’ve heard similar things about SARMs—seemed promising at first, but the suppression and liver toxicity aren’t worth it. Definitely sounds like the anabolic route is the safer long-term play if someone is going that direction. I know there's so many mixed opinions that i just don't feel comfortable picking them as a "safe" route.


Right now, I’m just sticking to the BPC-157 and TB-500 combo for healing, so that’s my main focus for now. Maybe I’ll hop on something else down the line, but I’m not in a rush.


I’ve got a TRT doctor I’ve been talking to about all this, and luckily, he’s the type who won’t ask questions if you know your stuff. As long as he’s comfortable with it—whether he prescribes it or I source it elsewhere—he’ll keep up with my blood work and monitor everything closely.


If you were to go the anabolic route again, what would your approach be this time around if any?

I’ve been blasting and cruising for 15 years. In my 20’s I would run a pct after to bring my levels back but after so many years their is only so many post cycle therapies you can do until you need trt. When I hit 30 I got on trt. I used sarms after I tried anabolics for the first time because I too believed they were this miracle no side effect supplement (there is no such thing) I got into the competition scene for a little
While but my wife won’t let me compete anymore, so now when i blast it’s very mild. Eq, mast, test that’s about it. Maybe npp here and there. Your test levels are probably high right now at your age. The moment you hop on gear that will change, this stuff is for life for the most part so if you can get gains without it I’d do that. My first cycle was test only. If you prioritize training you will grow, now at 40 I wish I would have taken better advice along the way. My wife takes peptides and she gets great results from
Those alone.

 

[T.natty]

Do you actually NEED TRT? At 21 years old I’d be surprised if your testosterone levels were truly low.

going to see a doctor on the 27th that is a TRT doctor we'll run blood and find out!

 

[T.natty]

Decided to wait on sarms and TRT and just go BPC and TB route for now. maybe throw in some GH-frag

 

[T.natty]

I’ve been blasting and cruising for 15 years. In my 20’s I would run a pct after to bring my levels back but after so many years their is only so many post cycle therapies you can do until you need trt. When I hit 30 I got on trt. I used sarms after I tried anabolics for the first time because I too believed they were this miracle no side effect supplement (there is no such thing) I got into the competition scene for a little
While but my wife won’t let me compete anymore, so now when i blast it’s very mild. Eq, mast, test that’s about it. Maybe npp here and there. Your test levels are probably high right now at your age. The moment you hop on gear that will change, this stuff is for life for the most part so if you can get gains without it I’d do that. My first cycle was test only. If you prioritize training you will grow, now at 40 I wish I would have taken better advice along the way. My wife takes peptides and she gets great results from
Those alone.

I'm going to a Doc on the 27th and we'll see what he recommends. Getting blood work done and then we'll see where I'm at then
I'm guessing he'll recommend HGH-Frag and maybe slight T if my levels are low but they should be pumping hard like you said. I just ordered BPC & TB. Focusing on the healing route first then I'll figure out if I can get some real gains w/o SARMs or Steroids