Disk Piece Removed From Bird

A fragment from a bulging disk that had herniated was removed from the back of the Boston Celtics’ Larry Bird during two hours of surgery Friday.

Bird, 34, sat out 22 games this season. His rehabilitation program will include 10 miles of walking for flexibility but no other athletic activity.

“It’s not fair or proper to place a timetable (on Bird’s return),” said Dave Gavitt, Celtic senior executive vice president. “We know he’ll be back with us at some point during the 1991-92 season.”