Golfing, Kayaking with Spondylolisthesis and/or after fusion

Twocoast, After I sold my offshore boat ( years ago ) I got into Kayak fishing. I loved it! It would get into places my bigger boat couldn’t. There are several models to choose from . Sit on top are the most popular unless you plan on doing the rapids lol. Requires good arms and back for the paddle type and Hobie actually has a pedal model which is great for legs as well as cardio. Just insure you go with another kayaker or a group just in case of medical reasons. As well get a waterproof camera as you’ll see nature at its best…..David

Also, there are groups that “rent” kayaks that will take you out on a guided tour in your area. I would recommend doing this as it’s cheaper then buying to see if you enjoy it…..David

I love that tongue in cheek question about whether or not I would be able to do something after surgery. I have the same problems with my lumbar spine as you do except for the osteopenia. My problem is too much bone and the surgeon says it probably isn't "good bone."

In any case, there is so much I gave up because of pain and just getting older. I like the thought of doing those things again but I'm not so sure I would actually do some of the things again. If I wasn't any good at some of those things when I was younger, what makes me think I would be any better after surgery now that I'm older? I used to play tennis but nobody ever told me I was any good at it!

Dadcue, Sometimes it’s good to think outside of the box. I used to dabble in tennis for a short time when I was younger. No one ever told me I was good at it, in fact they would just tell me I sucked at it lol. There’s a new type of game I think they call it peanut ball which is extremely popular down here ( it’s kinda like tennis) but the senior community loves it. Less rough on the body. I’ve never played it because I sucked at tennis so I’ve been told lol. Take up a musical instrument, so many options out there if we look. Worst thing is getting in a chair and watching TV ! Remember you’re still alive!….David

It’s pickle ball - super popular in 55 -and - older communities. They have converted some tennis courts to accommodate players of the game.

That’s the word I was looking for! I know a lot of my elderly friends play it and love it. They actually have age related leagues for it. One of them is 92 and gets up at 6 am and plays daily. Thanks for the correction! ( one reason I don’t play Tennis lol)……David

I have seen pickle ball played and it appeals to me. There are many things on a cruise ship to do but I like a hot tub and the pool the most. There is a court for basketball, volleyball and almost anything that is played with ball including pickle ball. I could try surfing if I wanted to or a water slide. I think there are many things that are doable but I usually just watch.

I have a wheeled walker called a "rollator" which has a built in seat where I can sit down when I need to. I get around well with it and I'm out on the running track while on a cruise ship. Many younger people "stop and talk" to me while I'm running with my rollator. They seem impressed with how fast I can go.

The thing that bothers me the most is my age. I was doing skydiving, scuba diving and ran miles each day until I was almost 50. I was so much better than the average 50 year old. By the age of 60 I was lagging behind the average 60 year old. I'm not even 70 yet so I don't know where I will be then.

You’ll never know until you try - I’m sure if you take it easy & approach with caution it may be an enjoyable activity for you. I kayaked in WA state several years ago and loved it. I must admit my Neurosurgeon did tell me at 63 after a 3 level fusion there may be some activities that although I am able, do not prove beneficial after my fusion. Deep flexion movements and over extension are a no go for me due to hypermobility combined with the fusion. However everyone is different & the reward of healthy physical activity is a great benefit mentally and physically. Good luck to you

You have what I have in addition to lower extremity peripheral neuropathy. The more you work your spine, which is weakened already, the more damage you may potentially cause. If you were fused it’s a different story. Kudos to you for taking up these sports at the young age of 65. Tread carefully as I’d hate to see you require emergent intervention for a back injury. I’m 70 and I prefer my last years to be as pain free as I can make them. More power to you and good luck. If you do not have a home exercise regime for your back see a PT.