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Spinal Surgeon Says Finley Likely Needs Surgery Before Return

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Note that this doctor has no personal knowledge of Packers tight end Jermichael Finley's situation, and he is only speaking in generalities. However, every scenario he poses where the spinal cord is bruised results in surgery being necessary. If that is the case, it seems likely that any possible return to the playing field will be delayed.
UPDATE: The scenarios in this article assume that the bruise was caused by compression of the spine. Ed Werder of ESPN says the following:

I'm told Jermichael Finley doesn't need surgery; other reports contradict. My understanding injury caused by torque, not spinal compression

— Ed Werder (@Edwerderespn) October 23, 2013