Heavyweight contender Shane Carwin underwent successful spinal surgery on Tuesday to repair damage to the C5, C6 and C7 vertebrae in his neck.
Known as a foraminotomy, the procedure was designed to relieve pressure on nerves in the spinal column and allow for easier movement. A bundle of nerves leaves the spinal cord through an opening — the neural foramen — in the spinal column. When the opening narrows, it can put pressure on the nerves and result in a condition known as foraminal spinal stenosis. It causes pain that radiates down through the limbs, along with numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.
Manager jason Genet said Carwin will not be allowed any physical contact for 8-12 weeks. Given the 8-12 week no-contact timeframe and a traditional 6-8 week training camp, it seems likely that Carwin won’t be back fighting in a UFC Octagon anytime before spring 2011. But the best news Carwin received is that his fight career should resume with no restrictions once he is fully rehabilitated.
The injury forced Carwin to withdraw from his scheduled battle with The Ultimate Fighter Season 10 winner and former International Fight League heavyweight champion Roy Nelson at UFC 125 Resolution on Jan. 1 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Carwin faces lengthy rehab following spinal surgery
Heavyweight contender Shane Carwin underwent successful spinal surgery on Tuesday to repair damage to the C5, C6 and C7 vertebrae in his neck. Known as a foraminotomy, the procedure was designed to relieve pressure on nerves in the spinal column and allow for easier movement. A bundle of nerves leaves the spinal cord through an…
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