Quote:
Originally Posted by DTQ_Blue
I am leaning toward having surgery to fix a ruptured disk in my neck that is pressing on a nerve root. Unless I choose to have the investigational artifical disk replacement, I will have the conventional disc removal and fusion. I haven't discussed yet with the Dr. what if any limits I would have on my activities after fusion.
I am wondering if anyone has had this type of surgery and has been able to resume umpiring, or whether they had to give it up.
Mike
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I had back surgery in 1976. 5th lumbar disc and partial vertebrae removed. In 1983, I ruptured the 4th lumbar disc and was told that I would need a fusion. My chiropractor has kept me off the table all these years.
So, seeing as I am familiar with the surgery and what happens afterword, let me say that you should let the doctors do what they have to then work with physical therapy. I wouldn't worry about umpiring for a while and then only work the bases. I would stay away from plate work for a long while. You must consider the weight of the mask, the angle of the head in the squat and the possibility of getting drilled by a foul ball directly to the mask. Wait for the doctor to approve.
They have come a long way since 1976. I have a gentleman that I umpire with on occasion that had a fusion in the lumbar region and he returned to full varsity work after about a year.