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Kramer undergoes successful back surgery
On Tuesday morning, Team Jumbo-Visma speed skater Sven Kramer underwent surgery on his back at the Haaglanden Medisch Centrum in The Hague. The surgery, performed by neurosurgeon professor Wilco Peul, was successful. Since it was a relatively minor procedure, the recovery time is estimated to take only a few weeks.
In the last couple of years, Kramer spoke more often about physical discomfort in his (lower)back. Extensive research prompted the intervention and provides confidence that it will reduce the complaint.
"Normally, an athlete does not prefer to opt for surgery at the start of an Olympic season. However, I have a lot of faith in neurosurgeon professor Peul and the outcome of the investigation and the nature of the procedure to provide the comfort to perform this operation anyway," Kramer said. "In recent weeks, I have done a lot of extra training work and thus built up a considerable buffer for the period of recovery. I look to the future with great confidence."
Coach Jac Orie: "Sven's physical values have been at top level for years now and are still improving. On the ice, his body occasionally yields him. All things considered, we dare to take this step, because we think there is a good chance that he will be able to perform better and especially more stable."
Kramer is going to travel with Team Jumbo-Visma to the training camp in Collalbo, Italy on May 23rd. For the multiple Olympic champion this camp will be all about his recovery.
Picture: Orange Pictures
