Despite six and five seasons at AFL level respectively, Nathan Grima and Cat Dawson Simpson have never crossed paths on the field.

Nevertheless, the injured Kangaroo is happy to seek advice from a player who like him, has suffered a serious back injury.

Grima underwent surgery to repair a bulging disc a fortnight ago, and will take what he can from the experiences of others.

“I spoke to Dawson Simpson at Geelong and he was kind enough to take me through it,” Grima told SEN’s Morning Glory.

“He’s had his third operation (on his back) now and he’s just played a game (NAB Challenge) on the weekend, so I know I can get back.”

PRESS PLAY above to listen to the interview.

Grima admitted the painful recovery process had taken its toll.

“Once I get out of this emotional slump I’ll realise it’s not that big of a deal,” he said.

“They do get you sometimes mentally these injuries and I don’t think supporters appreciate that when they are not inside a footy club.”

RELATED: Grima vows to get back

While Grima said he is determined to get back out on the field, the process has given him somewhat of a reality check.

“If this had happened for four or five years ago, all I would have wanted to do is get back and play footy.

“Being 29, going on 30, it’s a completely different mindset. Your first priority is just to get healthy, then focus on footy.”

Illustrating the seriousness of the surgery, Grima is unable to sit and spends most of his day flat on his back.

“Effectively what I have to do at the minute is avoid sitting, so it’s laying down all day and just building up to some slow walks,” he said.

“If you try and avoid sitting, it’s actually harder than you think. Most of the time I’ve just been in bed. It’s been pretty challenging not being able to bend, sit or twist; even just the little things, like taking the dog for a walk.

“I’m just resting up as best I can to heal as quick as I can.”