Spinal Surgery and Diving

[diverguy902003]

Hi all,

I am a 50 year-old diver halfway through advanced/nitrox cert. I am asking for information and advice about diving after spinal fusion surgery at L5-S1 that is scheduled for September 2005. I am a very healthy, active person and I am concerned about limitations of diving after this surgery. Have any other members had this surgery performed? How long did it take to recover, and are you aware of any studies that contraindicate or limit diving after spinal fusion. I love diving and don't want to give it up. I scheduled the surgery during hurricane season/winter, so that I might be recovered by diving season in 2006. I welcome any and all personal experiences to help in my decision about this surgery. Thank you all so much.

Jim

 

[scubajoe]

Jim,

I had spinal fusion surgery in August of 2003. Mine was just a little higher then yours. My doctor was a Navy diving physician in his previous career. He kept me out of the water for a few months. Diving that is, I was water walking, swimming and doing water aerobics in two months. He released me to dive with a few restrictions... no doubles, put my gear on in the water and don't do anything stupid! That is the part I have trouble with.
We talked about potential problems and he wasn't too concerned. I have 70 or so dives since the surgery with no problems so far. From 20 to 140 feet deep. I avoid the lifting that goes with diving as best as I can and try not to do anything stupid.
Now as far as getting well......that is a much different story. My surgery was not optional. It has been about 20 months and I am not much better then I was at six months. Still can't lift, bend, sleep much or sit. Probably going to to go on long term disability in a couple of months. Not looking forward to that. My doctor told me to lose weight and walk; I'm doing both. I have done lots of physical therapy and all sorts of other stuff. No two back surgeries are alike so don't assume you won't do much better then me. You may jump up and be well right away but try not to get discouraged if it doesn't happen. I feel 100% better after diving and I can sleep all night after a dive....so I've decide to dive all I can afford.
Good luck,

Joe

Shoot me a PM if I can help.