As luck has it, replanning our trip 1 1/2 years later because of Covid outbreak isn’t our only obstacle. I was in a bad car accident a few weeks ago and have a fractured sternum, fractured wrist, and am in a neck brace from severe whip lash. All braces are to come off the week before our Disney trip.
I’ve been searching on the boards but can’t seem to find which rides to definitely avoid post injury.
1). Is there a dedicated list around here?
2). What questions should I be asking the neuro docs at my follow up visit next week?
thanks!
I suggest you repost this on the disAbilities board - I think you will get some good responses there as well. That board may also have some FAQ's that would help - not sure.
I had a TBI from an accident a few years back (I also once just pulled something in my neck - when I was younger). From your injuries and going off my experience - I'm having a hard time thinking of rides that don't risk bothering your neck or other areas. (My 1st trip back to WDW after the TBI was 6-7 months later not right away)
Some rides like Safari in the AK might seem fine (just a jeep ride) but that ride is VERY bumpy if you have an injury. Spinning rides could also put pressure on your neck. Buzz you can control your spin so perhaps that would work. Even the Pooh ride has a bouncy part but it is tamer than many.
I think these could be ok: Jungle Cruise, Pirates (tho there is a small hill the boat goes down), Frozen - also has the hill, Haunted Mansion has the part where the vehicle turns backwards and tilts so you're more prone, and you may need to support your neck, Dumbo or the Flying Carpets - maybe if you don't go up and down because that can be jerky, Small World should be ok, TTA slightly bumpy but ok, Soarin, Livin with the Land, maybe the boat in the Mexico pavilion, Spaceship Earth (also has the tilt back like HM), Nemo in the Living Seas, ToT puts pressure on your neck I think but could be ok... that's all that come to mind that seem ok to me. The rest either spin a lot or have drops, are bumpy or are thrill rides. Also keep in mind that all of the boat rides sometimes stop and start suddenly especially when getting near the off loading area - it can really jerk your head back. The rollers that the boats go over are also bumpy.
I'd discuss the trip with the doc - I'm sure he/she has been to an amusement park or had this come up so hopefully will have good advice. I also suggest starting out with the easiest rides and see how that feels. If you end up aggravating something then your trip will be less pleasant is part of the bigger issue.
If you're there at Christmas you might think about focusing on holiday things (After Hours party, Candlelight Processional, fireworks shows, etc.). If this is a once in a lifetime trip and you don't go back often - I'd think about waiting until spring or summer.
I'll also mention that I use an
ECV now for badly arthritic knees - but with your injuries your body is still healing - can you do the walking required? Most lines are adapted for ECV's so you can just tour as you normally would - it doesn't give you any advantage other than it will conserve your energy/a place to sit while waiting.