Can You Skydive After a Knee Replacement?

Skydiving, while generally safe, always carries some risks—and it probably goes without saying that the injuries that do occur almost always take place during the landing. Although very uncommon, broken bones are not unheard of—and knees and ankles that have been surgically repaired may be at a slightly higher risk. For this reason, it’s important to be realistic about your limits if you’re planning to book the adventure of a lifetime.

Can you skydive after a knee replacement? Yes! As long as you’re within the height and weight limits and follow our landing guidelines, skydiving after a knee replacement is generally completely safe.

How to Prevent Knee Injuries While Skydiving?

Skydivers who worry about their knee replacements often share a common misconception—many think that when they land, they’ll have to use their feet, ankles, and knees to stabilize themselves. This isn’t actually the case.

When you book tandem skydiving with DZONE®, you’ll be trained in the art of the butt-slide landing. Here’s a quick overview of how it works:

  • As you approach the ground, you’ll kick your legs up and out. Your tandem skydiving instructor will do the same. 
  • With your legs up and out, you’ll slide to a stop on solid ground.

In rare cases, a parachute landing fall (PLF) may be required. The process is a little different, but rest assured, we’ll take every precaution to limit the risk to your ankles and knees.

Ask Your Doctor About Skydiving Medical Restrictions

Are there other medical conditions that prevent skydiving? Although skydiving is generally quite safe, those impacted by the following conditions should always consult a medical professional before skydiving:

  • It’s usually possible to skydive with either epilepsy or diabetes, but you should check in with your doctor before you suit up.
  • Licensed professionals can and do skydive while pregnant, but it’s generally not a good idea for first-timers to skydive until they’ve given birth. That’s because hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the skydiver’s risk for injury.
  • You’ll need to be able to arch your back during free fall. If neck or back injuries prevent you from holding the proper position, you shouldn’t skydive.
  • Due to a combination of factors including lower oxygen levels and pressure changes, skydiving with high blood pressure can lead to increased risks. However, many with high blood pressure skydive without trouble. Talk to your doctor.

Check out our frequently asked questions to learn more about skydiving medical restrictions and get a better sense of what to expect.

Your Skydiving Adventure Starts at DZONE®

Whether you’re planning to jump at our location in Boise, Coeur d’Alene, or Bozeman, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable ride and a green-grass landing with DZONE®. Book your appointment or explore more of our articles today.

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