NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 03: Willie Nelson performs onstage during 38th Annual Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Barclays Center on November 03, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/WireImage)© Mike Coppola

Willie Nelson's health issues over the years as the 91-year-old is cleared to go back on tour

Country megastar Willie Nelson has had a number of health issues over the years

US Writer
July 6, 2024

At 91 years old, Willie Nelson continues to tour and perform across the country. But a recent health scare saw fans concerned for him as he pulled out of his performance at Outlaw Music Festival "per doctor's orders".

A statement on X read: "We regret to inform you that Willie Nelson is not feeling well and, per doctor's orders, has been advised to rest for the next four days."

"He is expected to make a quick recovery and join the Outlaw Music Festival tour next week. In the meantime, Lukas Nelson and the Family Band, along with a few guests, will perform a special set to include Willie's classics and other songs."

It was revealed that the country star was going to be okay, with his rep telling Today.com: "Willie will be fine. I live in Los Angeles and will fly next week to see the performances on the east coast. I can't wait."

But there have been times when Willie's health updates have taken a more serious turn.

Here, we take a look at his health issues over the years.

1981 - collapsed lung

© Betty Galella

Willie Nelson in 1981

Willie suffered a collapsed lung while swimming in Hawaii in 1981, which led to him being taken to the Maui Memorial Hospital. His scheduled concerts were canceled as a result.

In response to the significant lung congestion, Willie temporarily stopped smoking cigarettes, resuming when the congestion ended. At this point, he was smoking between two and three packs per day. After suffering from several bouts of pneumonia, he made the choice to quit smoking tobacco, but continued to smoke cannabis.

2004 - carpal tunnel syndrome

© Icon Sportswire

Willie Nelson in 2004

The country musician underwent surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome after he damaged his wrists by continuously playing the guitar. He had to cancel his scheduled concerts, and was only able to write songs during his recovery.

2012 - emphysema

© Cindy Ord

Willie Nelson in 2012

While due to perform a fundraiser near Denver, he had to cancel when he suffered from breathing problems due to high altitude and emphysema, and was taken to a local hospital as a result.

In 2015, he would undergo stem-cell therapy to improve the state of his lungs after repeated bouts of pneumonia and emphysema.

2022 - COVID-19

© NBC

Willie Nelson in 2022

Willie postponed several shows in May 2022 after contracting COVID-19, which reportedly seriously affected him. He received treatments including Paxlovid, monoclonal antibodies, and steroids before continuing his tour in September 2022.

Willie Nelson's fitness practice

© Rick Kern

Willie is a keen practitioner of martial arts

The 91-year-old has a keen interest in martial arts dating back to his childhood. As a result, he has practiced kung fu, taekwondo, and GongKwon Yusul over the years. As a result, he holds a second-degree black belt in taekwondo, and a fifth-degree black belt in GongKwon Yusul.

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