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Stephen, Early last year I relieved myself of flying duties in order to undergo a laminectomy at L5. After years of low back pain, a herniated condition was corrected. After 6 weeks of recovery, and a urinalysis to assure my system was drug free, I returned to work. upon mny next visit to my FAA doctor, I was informed that in fact it was very possible that the FAA would pull my medical certificate and request more medical data. Is it possible for the FAA to end my career, even though physically I am in better shape than I have been in years? Mickey Dr. Roberts

...................................................................... Look, if the surgery worked and you don't have any significant loss of function, then no, the FAA wont deny you a medical. I suggest that you get a letter from your orthopedist indicating that you had a herniated disc that was removed via surgery, and that you are fine now. Make sure that the letter states that you don't have any motor deficits, and that you are off all medications.     [Topics]

I am looking into flight school as a commercial pilot but I am concerned regarding the physical due to having bi-lateral hip replacements. I have no problems with my hips now and don't forsee any in the future. Would this be a problem with obtaining a class 1 medical certificate. Thank you Joe B.

...................................................................... As long as your hip function (range of motion, etc.) is normal for your age...or near normal...and as long as you are not taking any pain medication, you should have no problem with a first class medical. Dr. Roberts     [Topics]

Dr. Roberts, I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis. Both hips have been replaced and I'm taking Tolmetin. My neck and back are stiff, although I have some movement. Overall, I lead a normal life and wish to get a medical. What are the chances of getting a medical and what will I have to supply to my AME and FAA to get one? Is it possible to get a 1st class? Thanks, John

...................................................................... You will need to submit to your AME a letter summarizing your condition, medications taken, etc. Ankylosiing Spondylitis, as you know, can markedly diminish the range of motion of joints. It will be up to your AME to determine whether you have any functional limitations that may require a Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA). Dr. Roberts     [Topics]

I have been looking for a very long time for a web page that would give me answers to questions relating to FAA medical requirements.. I have great love for the airplane industry and always hoped to one day to became a commercial pilot. I am planning to go to college and take my flying course in the next month or so but i have learned recently that i have a hip(arthritis) problem and I might need a hip replacement surgery in the next ten years. ever since that news my future to go into the airline industry has been a question mark. can you tell me if i will be discriminated by airlines or will i simply fail the medical due to the examination.your advised will greatly be appreciated. James

...................................................................... I wouldn't let that deter you. As long as you have normal hip function after recovering from surgery, you should be OK. Dr. Roberts     [Topics]

I broke the lateral processes on one side from L1-L5, I have full range of motion, I can lift 100lbs as long as I keep my back straight, and about 30 lbs leaning forward. It looks like two of the bones won't heal, will this keep me from completing my pilot license? Jimmy

...................................................................... As long as the function of the low back is normal, it should not be a factor. Dr. Roberts     [Topics]

I have a friend who would love to learn to fly, but he wonders if it is possible for him as he has had his right arm amputated above the elbow. What can I tell him? Diane

...................................................................... It is possible. He would have to apply for a SODA Through the FAA. This is what is called a demonstrated ability waiver. Dr. Roberts     [Topics]

4 Years ago I had compartment syndrome after a broken tib & fib. This has left me without the ability to raise my left foot. Am I ever likely to be able to pass a medical if I want to learn to fly ?

...................................................................... Yes, it is possible to get a medical, but you will have to request a demonstrated ability test. This means you can learn how to fly, but before you can solo, you will have to go on a check ride with the FAA, to show them that you can fly the airplane safely. SkyDoc     [Topics]

I broke my ankle a couple of months ago. I need to renew my 1st class medical. Are there any requirements on the use of the ankle to recieve a medical cert? ie:movement, or amount of pressure, etc.

...................................................................... Only that it function well enough to operate rudder controls (I.e., doesn't impair your ability to operate an aircraft in a safe manner). SkyDoc     [Topics]

I recently had a laminectomy. I am taking Naprosyn. Is this an approved drug? Also, is there a specific length of time before I can/should fly post-surgery? My surgeon has cleared me to drive a car

...................................................................... Naprosyn is approved. You can return to flying essentially when you can function normally from an orthopedic standpoint. SkyDoc     [Topics]

I am eventually going to require a single hip replacement. Are there any restrictions on that type of procedure, and what do you think the recovery time would be to return to commercial flying.

...................................................................... No, there are no restrictions as long as the use of your legs is normal. SkyDoc     [Topics]

I had my disc at L5 removed about six months ago. I am doing pretty well post-op, but my Dr. wants me to avoid heavy lifting. Is this a problem with the FAA? Scott

...................................................................... Generally, back pain is not a problem unless you are taking narcotic or other mind-altering medicines. As long as you are not on these types of medicines, and you have good function (range of motion) of the lumbar spine, you should be able to fly without a problem. Stephen