Spinal Fusion Question

[joshck94]

Hi, I had spinal fusion surgery in 2007 and was thinking about going to WDW soon and wanting some advice. Prior to the surgery, I rode every ride at WDW. My doctor told me I could ride the rides at WDW if I could put up with the pain afterwards. I want a second opinion. Any thoughts?

[tobikaye]

Are you asking about any specific rides? Did the doctor give you any thoughts on what rides you should not go on as they may cause you pain? Also, in what area is your fusion or where would your pain be if you had any?

Sorry for all of the questions, but without more information, it can be difficult to answer exactly what you want to know. Plus, I am not even sure if you are asking for our opinions or if you are asking us if you should see a second doctor for a second opinion?

[ttintagel]

Your doctor knows your case better than we do, but I don't guess it'd do any harm to get a second medical opinion.

[chloelovesdisney]

I skip Space Mountain, RnR, Expedition Everest, and Test Track but go on most others. If I go on something and start to feel pain, then I take it easy for the remainder of the day.

[Piper]

What kind of spinal fusion? How many levels and where? It could make a difference.

[SueM in MN]

WDW has a list of attractions with warnings. They use a general warning that doesn't tell specific information about each ride. There is a post on the second page of the disABILITIES FAQs thread that lists those attractions, plus a little more specifics about each.
So, along with the information posted so far by others, I would suggest that as a starting point. I would also suggest talking to the doctor about the rides at WDW - some people who have never bees there think of all the attractions as being like Small World or the Carroussel - so it may be important to make sure the doctor knows there are more than those kinds.

It would also useful to know what kind of motion/activity may cause you pain and how much. For some people, a single jolt is an issue. Some people can't take Rock N Roller Coaster and are in pain from take- off. Others say it is very smooth and they cn ride it without pain.

[Michigan]

My youngest daughter had rods put in a year ago April from T6 to the pelvis and her only restriction was no roller coasters for 6 months.

[luvmarypoppins]

I had my spine fused as a teen and I still dont do the rough rides at disney.

Even the safari at AK is a little jarring to me.

I always think there is no way I am ruining what the dr. put back together because there is no way I want to go through that surgery, pain and recovery again.

You and your body will be the best judge.

Have a great trip.

[KPeveler]

I agree we need a little more info about the fusion before we can give much advice.

[Pooh2]

Don't some of the ride have warning guidelines?
I remember seeing signs warning against pregnant ladies, back issues, heart issues, etc.
I assume if the ride has a warning, there is a good reason.

[SueM in MN]

Originally Posted by Pooh2

Don't some of the ride have warning guidelines?
I remember seeing signs warning against pregnant ladies, back issues, heart issues, etc.
I assume if the ride has a warning, there is a good reason.

Yes, there is a list in a post on page 2 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread ( near the top of this board or follow the link in my signature). The attractions with warnings are also marked on the park maps and with signs at the entrance and before boarding.

[KPeveler]

My doc cleared me for all rides months ago, but I still limit my riding because I still get sore. If the medical expert says you're good to go, then try them out SLOWLY - don't jump in with BTMRR 5 times. See how you feel 3-4 hrs later when your muscles are tired and then decide if another coaster is a good idea.

[winnie1274]

I have spinal fusions from t4-l4/5 with metal rods. Of course as everyone stated it is purely up to you, but I have ridden quite a few of the rides. My biggest issue is getting back up out of the vehicles. I have done the following: Space Mountain, Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain, Expedition Everest, Goofy's Barnstormer (new name same ride) and many more. Of all of them Expedition Everest was the smoothest. I say try one that you really want to go on & see how you feel. If your doctor says that you are healed enough to handle it then go for it, just make sure that it is at a time where if you do end up in pain that you won't be disappointed about having to leave the park or take it easy. Because Expedition Everest is the smoothest I would try that one 1st & go from there.