ToT with brittle bones?

[Garfieldo]

Hey there! My mother and I are eager to go on Tower of Terror this fall, but we have some concerns with her osteoporosis (AKA brittle ol' bones) in her lower lumbar. Now, this is a gal who still greatly enjoys riding moderate roller coaster (think Runaway Mountain if you'd been to Six Flags). However we're afraid the G-force from going up and down will put too much strain on her spine. What do you think?

 

[CrazyDuck]

Maybe... Do you think she could handle Maliboomer?

 

[avalon451]

It's pretty much free fall, quite intense. If you ever watch video of it, you will see people's lanyards, long hair, etc. floating free in midair during the drops. When you stop, it's a bit of a jolting bounce. I rather don't think I'd chance it, if I were her. Maybe you could go on it first, and see what you think?

 

[PinkBudgie]

I think I would be on the safe side and not go. Some of the ups and downs feel pretty strong. Maybe she can ask her doctor.

 

[DesertBell]

If you're worried about it, I wouldn't. That is something too important to take chances on for a one minute (Is it even that long?) ride.

 

[Garfieldo]

Thanks for the great advice, guys. I'll ride it first, but we'll probably end up having her skip it. Some things are just too important to risk.

EDIT: Are there any other rides you think she should avoid? (Maliboomer aside)

 

[TripHHH]

I would stay away from Indiana Jones. In my experience, it really tossed me around quite a bit with a lot of jerking on the back and waist.

 

[Corpsebride]

I would stay off of the materhorne. To me it is a back buster/ kidney puncher. There are so many other rides that she can go on that wont hurt at all. You all will still have a blast.

 

[PinkBudgie]

I agree about the Matterhorn. That one is very jarring. You feel each little bump in your seat and if you had back problems it would probably go up in to your back. It isn't smooth at all gives me a headache. My boys made me go on it at least 10 times last trip.

 

[YellowMickeyPonchos]

Doesn't it stink when we get older and have to admit we're not kids anymore!!!! We have to modify our whole definition of fun!

I would heed the signs that say what types of conditions should avoid the rides. Any that say riders must be free from back injuries, probably isn't the wisest. God forbid something would happen, you have absolutely no recourse for injury. As someone who only hits a couple of attractions each park visit (samll kids will do that to you), I've really learned to find the joy in just hanging out while others ride. So much to see and do besides that. For instance, while you do Space Mountain - which is a lot faster and whippier than it used to be, she can cruise Innoventions and really enjoy those exhibits. She could even go upstairs and learn to ride the Segway. That is lots of fun. While you're on Big Thunder, she could enjoy the show at the Golden Horseshoe - get an ice cream while there, too!

On that same vein, ToT means sitting and having a glass of wine at the Vinery area!
Have a safe trip!

 

[imjen]

Just piping in to give another vote of agreement on avoiding the bumpier roller coasters. Even without major back problems, sometimes I come off them with a sore neck or back. I'd say avoid Star Tours as well, it's quite jerky. And definitely Big Thunder, Indiana, and Matterhorn. Splash Mountain might be ok. If you haven't been on that one, try it first and see what you think. It's not as jerky as the others in my opinion.