Back Injury

[Chris94]

I'm looking to apply for PLC (flight) and I'm worried that a history of back injuries could stand in my way. I'm perfectly okay and healed up now, but a little over a year ago I herniated my disc and it took about a year to get over the injury. My OSO told me to get a waiver from my doctor (which I'm going to do), should I also speak to a military flight doctor? Anyone know how to get ahold of one?
Thanks!

 

[Renegade One]

A history of back injuries could stand in your way. Unless you can work a "buddy connection" and somehow hook up with a Flight Doc, I'd think the only sure way of seeing one would be to start the process and there'll be a military physical exam in there somewhere. Good luck.

 

[robav8r]

I herniated two discs as a rescue swimmer and ultimately had a discectomy at L4/L5 & L5/S1 (1990). Had a great recovery and have been asymptomatic ever since. I ultimately received a permanent waiver and even flew in an ejection seat A/C (S-3B) post surgery. The key is to show that post-surgery you are asymptomatic with no neurological damage or limitations. I realize my data is dated, but back injury/surgery is waiverable. PM for any other questions you may have . . .

 

[HeloFinch]

Had a broken back (T-12 compression fx) as a plebe at USNA, no nerve damage or surgery required. Got a waiver leading up to the commissioning/service selection process that was contingent on my remaining asymptomatic. Had no issues going through flight school or with two tours flying H-60s. There will need to be a waiver process, and my best advice is to start early.

 

[Griz882]

I am glad to see the various success stories here. In my case it was the opposite. A rather non-serious (in my view) back injury took me out of the cockpit and BUMED made sure I never back in (military at least).

 

[Chris94]

I herniated two discs as a rescue swimmer and ultimately had a discectomy at L4/L5 & L5/S1 (1990). Had a great recovery and have been asymptomatic ever since. I ultimately received a permanent waiver and even flew in an ejection seat A/C (S-3B) post surgery. The key is to show that post-surgery you are asymptomatic with no neurological damage or limitations. I realize my data is dated, but back injury/surgery is waiverable. PM for any other questions you may have . . .

I have a buddy in Pcola right now who got completely DQ'd for a herniated disc about a year ago. I herniated mine 5 years ago and got a waiver for OCS which I'd assume be good for flight school as well. I'm just paranoid that when I get to Florida they're gonna screw me...

 

[Waveoff]

I have a buddy in Pcola right now who got completely DQ'd for a herniated disc about a year ago. I herniated mine 5 years ago and got a waiver for OCS which I'd assume be good for flight school as well. I'm just paranoid that when I get to Florida they're gonna screw me...

I guess just bring your waiver paper with you to all appointments with NAMI and the flight docs. You’d want a folder anyway for paperwork they give you, so just put it in there to be safe. I had height issues with anthro (That I lost the battle to) so I’m familiar with being paranoid about the outcome. Best of luck.

 

[jsnchwen]

I have a buddy in Pcola right now who got completely DQ'd for a herniated disc about a year ago. I herniated mine 5 years ago and got a waiver for OCS which I'd assume be good for flight school as well. I'm just paranoid that when I get to Florida they're gonna screw me...

Just checking in to ask if you encountered any difficulty with your waiver down in Pcola

I'm asking because I recently herniated my disc and want to see if others had any success with getting a waiver and a pilot slot

 

[HuggyU2]

These injuries happened as a civilian? And now you're totally healed up?

I guess my question is "why would you tell the military anything?"

 

[jsnchwen]

These injuries happened as a civilian? And now you're totally healed up?

I guess my question is "why would you tell the military anything?"

Not sure if you're responding to me, but..

Yes, this happened as a civilian and I'm as a good as I was before (no limits in strength/range of motion); working out the same as I was before (crossfit/rowing)

I got an MRI and went to the doctor, so I'm assuming the records will be pulled by genesis