The Challenges and Patience of Rehabilitating from C1 Injury
Big E’s journey to recovery continues following his broken neck in March 2022. While he did not require surgery for the injury, he has yet to make a return to the wrestling ring. Presently, there is no specific timetable for his comeback.
During an WWE After The Bell appearance, Big E was asked about his current condition. He expressed feeling great but acknowledged the absence of a set timeframe for his return.
“I feel great. Unfortunately, I don’t have a timetable. The great thing is, I feel 100%, I don’t even feel like someone who broke their neck. My mobility is incredible and great. My strength is great, I have no issues whatsoever. I wish I had some answers on returning to the ring. I have nothing, unfortunately, but the beautiful thing is I feel great, my body feels great, I’m really thankful for that. Life is good. I’m blessed. I can walk around and touch my toes, go to the gym, all those things. Really grateful.”
Big E expressed gratitude towards the emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who provided timely assistance when the injury occurred. Initially, he believed it was merely a contusion and was unaware of the severity of the neck fracture. The care he received from Dr. Jeffrey Dugas in Birmingham played a crucial role in his recovery. Throughout his healing process, he received overwhelming support from fans, peers, and loved ones, highlighting the strength of the wrestling community.
The recovery journey from C1 injuries can be arduous and time-consuming, even for professional athletes like Big E. These injuries necessitate a rigorous rehabilitation process focused on restoring strength, range of motion, and flexibility.
The C1 bone, also known as the atlas, plays a vital role in supporting the skull and facilitating head movement. Injuries to the C1 bone can be extremely serious, with potential life-threatening implications. The duration of recovery for C1 injuries varies depending on the severity of the fracture and an individual’s unique healing capabilities. Approaching the healing process with patience and dedication is crucial to achieving optimal recovery outcomes.
Only time will reveal when Big E will make his return to the wrestling ring. Despite feeling great and being in good spirits, he understands the importance of not rushing his comeback and ensuring he is fully ready to resume the physical demands of his profession.
