I quit swimming 1.5 yrs ago due to pain from degenerated discs + spondylitis. my back hurts after only 2 10 min swims. do i have to give up swimming?

Not necessarily: Have you tried pool aerobics/exercises? Good exercise without stressing joints; any exercises that hurt back could be modified or eliminated.

Suggestions: Try stroke without a flutter kick use zoomer fins no buttefly the backstroke is well tolerated I have some spondylitis swimmers use a snorkel in the pool and fins no kick boards less back extension better tolerated.