US Army Recruiting Command, US Army Training & Doctrine Command
US Army Recruiting Command, US Army Training & Doctrine Command
Posted on Nov 19, 2016
Is it possible to enlist with a previous disc injury?
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A herniation of a lumbar disc that did not require surgical intervention and has not prevented the person from being physically active/passing physicals/working physically demanding jobs, specifically. What would someone have to do to get into the military with a previous injury like that, is it even possible?
Re-enlistment
Medicine
Waivers
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 15
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All the documents need to get to the physician at MEPS to review everything. Most likely submission of a waiver would be required. But I would say that it might be possible.
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SPC Steven Schoenhut
Everything is possible with a waiver... Just have to find someone that wants to take on the work of it.
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Yes it is possible. All that is needed is complete documentation by a MD that specializes in the field. To basically give a waiver. I have seen plenty of Airborne soldiers with broken backs that have re-uped.
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I admire anyone that wants to serve. I especially admire someone who wants to serve bad enough that they would overcome additional adversity to do it. I am not a doctor and do not know the additional risks. But isn't the potential of lifelong debilitating pain, or worse, a clear signal to think about a different career? I would strongly advise the person talk to an appropriate medical specialist before I gave any additional advice.
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PFC Jim Wheeler
I guess that depends on your perspective; military service has always come with the potential of lifelong debilitating pain.
I imagine they would really need to talk to a professional either way to get some type of documentation to show they are fit for duty.
I imagine they would really need to talk to a professional either way to get some type of documentation to show they are fit for duty.
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Maj John Bell
PFC Jim Wheeler - I understand what you are saying, but my knees were healthy when I entered the service....
I like to know what kind of odds the bookmakers are giving before I bet my health.
I like to know what kind of odds the bookmakers are giving before I bet my health.
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