Doctor Explains How Edge Was Able to Medically Return to WWE

After a nine-year absence, WWE Hall of Famer Edge made his pro wrestling in-ring return at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view. The “Rated R Superstar” had an impressive showing, entering at number 21 and lasting nearly 24 minutes. During this time, he was able to eliminate AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, and Randy Orton.

In 2010, Edge was forced to medically retire due to ongoing complications with his neck. However, his neck is in a place now where he was medically cleared to return. Orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine physician Dr. Chris Raynor went into detail on why he was able to be cleared.

“Given the problems that Edge was experiencing prior to his retirement, a likely surgery would have been an extension of his fusion to the levels above and below his previous fusion,” said Dr. Raynor. “That means extending the fusion to the C4 level above and the T1, or top thoracic level, down below. This would improve the stability of the spine, and decrease irritation and symptoms of the involved levels.”

Dr. Raynor did state, however, that this would “also limit the range of motion at the levels involved in the fusion,” and that “it remains to be seen how much neck mobility Edge will have, and what his function in the ring will be like.”

Edge has signed a three-year deal for the WWE, with only a small limit of matches per year. Edge stated in his return promo on the Raw following the Royal Rumble that he does not know how long this run will be, but his wanted to retire from the business on his terms.

Currently, Edge is expected to compete against Randy Orton at WrestleMania, and the segment at the end of last week’s Raw was a way to keep his character fresh for a return closer to the event. This will be Edge’s first WrestleMania since defeating Alberto Del Rio at WrestleMania 27 in 2011.

If any quotes are used from this article, please credit Chris Featherstone for the transcription. 

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