I recently (2weeks ago) had a spinal fusion done at s1 l5 and was wondering if anyone had a similar op and how long it took them to get back in the water. I am 42, pretty fit and ride short boards 6"2" have been surfing for 30 years. Easty
Welcome 
I havnt had that op but Ive had a microdiscectemy <<spelling 
8 months out of water and ages to get back up to form (still have pain after surfing) but its possible. Fusion is more serious than what I had so I would think it would take longer too heal.
Howdy. I had a major crush injury to L2 (impact - lost 13mm in height), and although I had no surgery I was out of the water for 10 months then as Doggies says, a long slowish road back after losing a lot of strength and fitness (and some confidence not wanting to go over the falls and re-injur myself).
I was 32yo and fit and had been surfing for ~20yrs at the time.
Take your time... and do plenty of swimming and other recommended strengthening exercises...
Hi Easty, if you have trouble and it could be more from sitting on your board (s1 is at base of spine) then just take up SUP
even if to just keep fit
I did a couple of discs when I was 25 (only a few years ago) 9 months re-hab in the pool and a lot of funny little exercises to re-engage the core muslces etc..back in the game now but always stretch and keep as fit as I can whilst having a life 
If it had not come good enought to surf would have gone SUP, any option of just getting out on the water was good enough for me.
Nowadays love the Mal and have a "big guys shortboard" for the bigger days.
Good luck with the re-hab Easty.
Easty,
I had fusion done on L1,L2 and L3 in 1992 (aged 35) and it was the best thing I ever did. After suffering severe sciatic pain for months.
It took me about 3 months to get back on my feet and active, doing all the things I wanted to do with a couple of exceptions. What must be understood mate is 'fusion' does in a small way affect your ability to bend (straighten) and twist at the same time. If I am sitting and drop something I find it easier to get out of the chair to pick it up rather than to bend and twist from the sitting position. Ten pin bowling leaves me stiff as.
The transition from paddling to standing may give you a bit of greif for a while but stay with it, mou may need a litre or two of the 'Amber Anti Inflammatory' after a session, but thats the price you have to pay.
Good Luck with your recovery and no matter how good the surf, take it easy for a while.
