Natalie Gumede and Artem Chigvintsev
Natalie Gumede's 'Strictly Come Dancing' journey is in jeopardy after a back injury during rehearsals has left her ability to perform tomorrow (19.10.13) uncertain
The former 'Coronation Street' actress has aggravated an old back problem in rehearsals for tomorrow's (19.10.13) episode and she may not be able to compete this week.
In a blog post for Yahoo!, Natalie revealed how her back seized up while practicing with her professional partner Artem Chigvintsev, and she felt a familiar pain to a previous injury 10 years ago - which has caused her issues ever since.
She wrote: "I was just so lucky to be with Artem at the time who kicked straight into action, as well the lovely people at Strictly ... What a scary 48 hours it's been.
"I've been through three GP appointments, two back specialists, an MRI scan and now an epidural/steroid injection - and I STILL don't know if I can dance on Saturday night."
Although still in pain - and her future in the show uncertain - the 29-year-old star explained the injury could have been much worse, although she will be pushing herself extremely hard to recover ahead of the normal schedule.
She continued: "The original fear was a slipped disc which has now been eliminated, but there is still some bulging of the disc and wearing of the facet joint which is causing nerve pain through the legs.
"Under normal circumstances, rest would be the order of the day - under these circumstances, I need to get physical in less than 24 hours to stand a chance of making the live show.
"I am now waiting to have the steroid injection, a few hours after which my verdict will be delivered; but for now the jury is still out."
Tagged in Strictly Come Dancing Natalie Gumede