Can a commander deploy someone who had their lower vertebrae fused?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 10:03:48 -0400

I'm about to get my lower virtabre fused next month. Got a month of con leave 5-6 months PT.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2022 10:11 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 10:11:38 -0400

Are you asking if a Commander can deploy you 5-6 months post con leave? It is possible. However, it will be determined what your medical provider(s) says and what SRP Medical says regarding your deployability. If I may ask, which vertebrae in the lower are getting fused? The reason I ask is because this could impair your ability to wear body armor. You'll certainly need to speak with your doctor about what your Perm Profile is going to say.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Oct 12 at 2022 12:35 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:35:23 -0400

Being deployable fully depends on an individual's medical status. If you are still on light or limited duty due to recovering or rehabbing post surgery then you won't be deployed. BUT, if you are on full duty and listed as being deployable than the answer would be yes.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2022 1:29 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:29:54 -0400

I have to ask a question. It's your choice to share but are you opting for a fusion or is your surgeon pushing you in that direction? Do you have degenerative disc disease or a blown disc? I've had L4/L5 spine surgery and I am speaking from experience with the following. Do yourself a favor and re-engage with your neuro and ensure you explore all options. The reason why I'm saying that is because Tricare covers lumbar total disc replacements with the activL Artificial Disc. Don't kill your mobility with a fusion. Message me direct if you're more comfortable. Best of luck to you.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Oct 12 at 2022 4:29 PM

MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:29:44 -0400

Speaking as a former Mobility NCO, your Commander can do pretty much whatever they want as long as it isn't otherwise prohibited by law, regulation, or medical restriction. Talk to your primary provider about any restrictions and/or permanent profiles. Your duty status moving forward will depend heavily on what your physician documents.

As MSG Private RallyPoint Member mentioned, talk with your provider (I'd highly suggest a second or even third opinion before surgery!) before having the fusion done. The loss of physical mobility will impact you more than you realize in the future. See if disc replacement/repair or even vertebrae replacement would be more appropriate depending on your medical situation.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2022 9:49 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 21:49:11 -0400

Good question, I'm thinking it depends on your MOS?

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2022 9:49 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 21:49:26 -0400

Good question, I'm thinking it depends on your MOS?

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2022 9:49 PM

PVT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 21:49:49 -0400

Good question, I'm thinking it depends on your MOS?

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Oct 15 at 2022 11:12 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 11:12:42 -0400

The answer to approximately 99% of all military "Can a Commander do X" questions is either "yes, always," or "yes, in the right conditions." I've said it a couple dozen times on RP, I'll probably say it a couple dozen more: Commanders COMMAND. It'what what they do.

They bear the full weight of the responsibility of their Commands. But if they Command it, so shall it be done.

In your situation the question is much more likely to be SHOULD a Commander deploy you, not CAN they. And THAT will depend on the recommendations of medical providers.