In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Immersion with herniated disc
February 10, 2025

Question

I have a back injury (herniated disc in my lower back). I’m due to go to mikveh but I have a few concerns:

1. My back has been taped up by a physiotherapist for pain relief/support. Even if I removed the tape, I don’t think I have the range of movement to remove all the sticky residue.

2. I don’t think I can get in and out of a bathtub for preparation, and

3. I can’t bend down to clean myself properly (I can’t even bend over the sink to spit out toothpaste at the moment).

Is it permissible to delay immersion?

Answer

Thank you for reaching out to us. We are sorry to hear of your injury and that you are in pain. We hope you will heal quickly.

In this situation it is permitted to delay immersion. However, it may be worth considering what you can do to both prepare and immerse soon, especially if you anticipate being limited in this way for a while.

It is permissible to take a long shower instead of a bath to prepare for immersion. Perhaps you have a close female friend or family member who you can ask to help you with preparations. A friend or famliy member can also help you remove the residue left after you remove the tape on your back. The mikveh attendant may be able to help you with this as well.

You should discuss with the mikveh attendant in advance how you will be able to immerse. The attendant or a friend can help you into the mikveh itself, and even hold your hand (somewhat loosely) during immersion once she wets her own hand with the mikveh waters first. In this situation, you can also immerse while wearing a long loose shirt.

We hope this helps. Please write back with any further questions.
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