Best BC After Back Surgery

[FDsnare]

Hey Everyone,

Not sure if this has been discussed before and I apologize if I'm asking an old question. I'm a retired firefighter that has had a 3 level spinal fusion in my lower back. It's strong and I have no issues diving however I'm looking for anyone's opinion on the best BC for lower back comfort.

I've been looking at the Mares Hybrid AT because of it's lower back suspension system but I'm open to any and all suggestions or opinions.

Thanks!

 

[tbone1004]

how much are you going to be walking around with tank on your back?

 

[FDsnare]

how much are you going to be walking around with tank on your back?

My plan is to keep it off until I'm ready to dive off a transom. Not sure if it matters once I get into the water.

 

[tbone1004]

My plan is to keep it off until I'm ready to dive off a transom. Not sure if it matters once I get into the water.

why not go to single tank sidemount?

 

[BoltSnap]

It would appear that sidemount BC would be best for you. You can do single tank or two-tank sidemount setups.

 

[jd950]

if you choose to utilize a BC instead of a sidemount, you might want to take a look at the various Aqualung models that have their "wrapture" system. Despite the silly name, it does a good job of taking weight off of the shoulders and back and putting it on the hips. We got one of these for my wife after she had back surgery several years ago and she liked it enough she has stayed with the design despite no longer having back issues. I also have a BC with that system and it is easier on the back and shoulders. Those comments address wearing the gear on land. In the water it doesn't really mater much so in the end it might not matter what you choose if you can gear up in the water or just before entering the water. Obviously, you would need to try it first and see if it works for you.

Good luck with your choice and your recovery.

 

[FDsnare]

if you choose to utilize a BC instead of a sidemount, you might want to take a look at the various Aqualung models that have their "wrapture" system. Despite the silly name, it does a good job of taking weight off of the shoulders and back and putting it on the hips. We got one of these for my wife after she had back surgery several years ago and she liked it enough she has stayed with the design despite no longer having back issues. I also have a BC with that system and it is easier on the back and shoulders. Those comments address wearing the gear on land. In the water it doesn't really mater much so in the end it might not matter what you choose if you can gear up in the water or just before entering the water. Obviously, you would need to try it first and see if it works for you.

Good luck with your choice and your recovery.

Thanks so much for the response!

 

[lv2dive]

I had an L5/S1 fusion around '97 and returned to diving in '99 with well over 100 dives that year alone. For most of '99 I was using a backplate and wing, I found it was most comfortable for my back as well ((tight waist strap helped keep weight where I wanted it). I started diving steel doubles in 2010.

I realize an L5/S1 fusion isn't as challenging as what you are facing, but I wanted to a) answer your question literally and b) hopefully give you a little (positive) perspective from a fellow spine fusionee.

Edit; my long delay in returning to diving was circumstantial not physical.

 

[northernone]

With lower back issues I do well with gearing up in the water and keeping the weight high on my shoulders and lower on my hips as much as possible. The level of comfort between slight adjustments is dramatic after a long dive.

I can't speak to the particular bcd you're looking at or how it will interact your particular spine.

All the best,
Cameron