I had c5-c6 fused 4 years ago. Tried to go back too soon. And was set back due to the muscle atrophy I had sustained from the injury. After the first setback I got a power vest and have used it for the last 3 years. At the end of this season I am finally able to ski without the power vest. It has taken me 3 years to strengthen my left shoulder back to about 80 percent of what it was. I still use a unilateral shoulder brace. I think it is critical to continue doing the exercises that the physical therapist shows you forever!!!! I think that if I had started doing those exercises from the beginning, I never would have had to have surgery. I know I didn't have lumbar injury, but I know a lot of skiers that have. I have seen those types of injuries end their skiing. For the lumbar having a strong core is critical. I would focus on that all off season. Hope that helps