Your Experience with Microdiscectomy Back Surgery

Pete · Since 29 Oct 2007 843 Posts Opinionated

I had a herniated disc, and this seems like a semi common surgery among kiters, and was hoping to glean from your experience what your recovery time was prior to kiting, method of recovery, how you knew you were ready to get back into kiting, and how you "eased" into it like the surgeons want.

I had a microdiscectomy about three months ago, at the L4/L5, and am trying to figure out the right time to get back into the sport. I am 44 years old.

I did go kiting about a month ago, which set me back quite a bit. Maybe even a permanence setback, as I really haven't been the same since that lapse in judgement.

Any insight you have would be great.

Cannon · Since 13 Sep 2010 73 Posts

Had mine 6 years ago at age 38, was windsurfing at the time which I find harder on my back than kiting and was back on the water in under 6 months. Use a seat harness for at least a year until your back is stronger and do some lawn mowing with only small controlled jumps or go strapless. I had/have nerve damage and no strength in left toe so that took some getting used to. Still have to do daily pt routine to keep in check and in that first year walking a lot really helped. Even had a recumbent bike for a bit but don't have a beard or teach science so moved on from that Wink

I've now been kiting 5 years and hucking myself around without too much thought and had a shoulder surgery in there too, so you'll get back, just takes a bit of time.

Pete · Since 29 Oct 2007 843 Posts Opinionated

Thanks for the reply. Looking to get a seat harness, although it is going to be tough for me to go back to that!

Windian · Since 28 Apr 2008 901 Posts Newport, OR NEWPORT OG

Back in 2005 I had a chunk of disc break off between L4 and L5, it dropped down and lodged itself in the nerve canal to my left leg. It caused insane burning pain in my left leg from my knee down to my toe. It was totally debilitating and I couldn't do anything!
Dr. Chris Miller (neurosurgeon) from Eugene did the microsurgery to remove the fragment and I have been good ever since that time.

I have been very dedicated since that time to doing daily core exercises to keep the muscles surrounding that area strong. I believe if your surrounding core muscles are strong and constantly engaged, then they will stretch and support your spine and keep it from collapsing downward. In other words, let your muscles keep you upright and in good posture, not your skeleton. "Plank" and variations of that exercise I had had the most success with over the years. Get yourself a Swiss ball and google for core exercises with a swiss ball and you should find tons of good stuff to help your rehad and kiting longevity.

Question

wylieflyote · Thu Jun 11, 15 5:00 am

Related: I have a very dear friend who now has multiple crushed vertebrae as a legacy of Multiple Myeloma. We know it's insane to even consider kiting: Risk of more crushing, as well as septic waters & compromised immune system. But, we're talking about a true waterman who will suffer some serious depression without at least a bit of mellow lawn-mowing for just a few minutes this coming summer.
Already planning on sending me out with accelerometers, stress meters, to see just how much the body goes through during a simple "back & forth" hour on flat waters. We are thinking that it can't be much worse than a stroll in the park (no jumps).

Anyone here have ideas for: Back bracing? Face mask/cover to prevent sour water ingestion? Other ideas?
TIA
Kip

My KB4C page:

https://donate.athletes4cancer.org/fundraise?is_new=1&fcid=433364

Sella · Thu Jun 11, 15 8:42 am

Pete · Since 29 Oct 2007 843 Posts Opinionated

skideeppow · Since 26 Aug 2011 521 Posts Addicted

I have had two micro disscetomies. Full recovery after both suergeries. They were at different levels. Lead a very active lifestyle.
Send me your email address and I will shoot you over my PT program, all for the small muscles in your back. Multifidus and transverse (pee muscles).
This can really help.

Also, if you havent, pick up Dr John Sarno's books on back pain. I dont believe 100% in his theories but there is something to be said about what he says.

Good luck, there is nothing like accute back pain.

MEwing5000 · Since 14 Nov 2005 34 Posts Seattle

PT is key. And time.

Oh time!, that is the worst thing to lose.

I have spondylolisthesis. L5 S1. Exploded disk. Bed ridden for 3-4 months. Stuck in fetal position, really bad nerve damage on my left side. Pretty darn paralyzed for months (70%). This happened 7 years ago. No surgery but did have 2 epidurals and years of PT. Still must do PT regularly. I still go through a couple bouts a year where I have to walk with a cane but there is light at the end of the tunnel for you. First year is a roller coaster.

Waist harness was better for me the seat.

Once you work your strength up you'll be back to riding hard. Below is a wipe out video I made this year. 7 years after my initial diagnosis.

https://youtu.be/8F3ssuL2HMM

Sometimes tough to do but keep your head up you'll make it back.