Close to a year ago I fell off a ladder and ever since have had back issues. It's been a long process but after working with WSIB for about 6 months I've had my MRI results back and they're recommending spinal surgery to correct protruded discs compressing my spinal cord, causing neck and back pain and numbness in my limbs.
I work as a carpenter, have been for about 10 years. I'm now facing the reality that I can no longer do physical work. Even with surgery they recommend I avoid it.
With my current restrictions I am extremely limited with what I can do. No lifting more than 10lbs, no lifting above shoulders, no repetitive lifting, bending, kneeling, movement of neck, pushing or pulling. Only occasional movement but not repetitive.
I've made my boss aware and he's asking me to do masonry tomorrow. The stones are not 10lbs each however the repetitive work would strain my restrictions. I'm wondering if anyone has gone through this kind of life and career change situation before and anything they've learned along the way.