I would like to become a USAF pilot very much, however I have a back condition called scoliosis, I have two curves a upper and lower, one is in the mid 30 range , the other curve is in the mid 40 range.
According to this site http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/a/spine.htm it is a medically disqualifying condition.
Is their any chance I could get a waiver? I am 18 years old, and according to docters and xrays, I am done growing and the curve should not progress much farther. I do not have any pain and the docter says that my back isnt any weaker than a normal one?
c. Deviation or curvature of spine (737) from normal alignment, structure, or function if-
(1) It prevents the individual from following a physically active vocation in civilian life.
(2) It interferes with wearing a uniform or military equipment.
(3) It is symptomatic and associated with positive physical finding(s) and demonstrable by x-ray.
(4) There is lumbar scoliosis greater than 20 degrees, thoracic scoliosis greater than 30 degrees, and kyphosis or lordosis greater than 55 degrees when measured by the Cobb method.
Also, What if I have surgary done to correct the curves to near straight. Two rods would be screwed into the spine. It is pretty serious surgary but is somewhat common process and very little risk. leaves a scar about 12 inches long on the back. Would I have a better or worse chance of a waiver?
d. Fusion, congenital (756.15), involving more than two vertebrae. Any surgical fusion (81.0P) is disqualifying.
One last thing would it make any difference on my chances about my prefernce of which job. Pulling G's in a fighter would put stress on the spin. But what about flying choppers, or staying on the ground as a officer. I plan to try through OCS