USVI-On-Line

Am recouperating from C5-6 disk fusion and wondering if anyone has had this surgery and how it affected swimming/snorkeling if any affect? Our trip is planned for July 19-30 and my doctor told me everything should be good by then. Just wondering if anyone had experienced? Thoughts of our vacation surely help with recovery.

I had L5-S1 surgery a few years ago and went to STJ 6 weeks after. I was just careful. Didn't do any lifting (except the glass to my lips) and I thought floating in the salt water weightlessly really helped. When snorkeling just be aware of your neck position and if it hurts, take a break. I honestly think you'll be fine.

Hey Patty,

I had C4,5,6 fused @ 6 years ago. Since your surgery was recent you may experience some fatigue across your shoulders/neck while snorkeling. Like Bevm said watch your neck position. It's doubtful that you will experience signicant "pain" that would keep you from snorkeling. As far as swimming, this will help your recovery big time. You want to do everything you can to strengthen your back and shoulders. Also stretching is the key to recovering your full range of motion, your Dr. should tell you when it's ok to start exercising again and they should give you some stretches to do. I know what discomfort you are going through, but you will bounce back! 6 years later I rarely think about my fusion and I have full range of motion.

Keep the faith,
Bidman

My father has three vertebrae fused and walks with the aid of a cane. He found Maho Bay to be the most relaxing. The easy gradual entry was very comfortable for him.

Cheers, RickG

Hi Patty,
Good luck with your healing process. I had a discectomy @ L4-5 and came out with 99% recovery. I was not actually in the water swimming until about 3 months later and by then was well aware of my range of motion.

Seeing as it's your Cervical spine I would be very careful with any sudden head/shoulder movement for awhile. I'm sure being in the water will be great therapy but I would limit myself at first. I know when I'm snorkeling I'm twisting my upper body and head all over to try and see it all.

Sounds like you still have plenty of time for strengthening and recovery before July. Just keep your therapy going, learn your limits, take it slow at 1st and you'll do fine I'm sure.

Take care,
Kathy

Thanks for the input!! You can always count on this forum to give good feedback for just about anything!! I will begin physical therapy after I return to the surgeon on May 20. I will make sure I follow through with exercises/stretches because I would like to get back to 100%.