The Saints released a statement late in the day confirming that the 32-year-old, whose future has been a hot topic in recent days, would be placed on the injured list indefinitely as a result of a “chronic arthritic condition in his hands”.
The Saints and Gehrig reached the decision on Tuesday after his injury has worsened in recent weeks.
Gehrig conceded his playing days might now be limited but said he hadn’t regretted coming back to play at the top level after initially retiring late last year.
“My body just isn’t what is used to be and despite my best efforts to play competitively, I’ll now need to take some time to work out how to better manage my hands,” he said.
“My return this year was always going to be a risk but I love the Saints and the game and was fully prepared to take my chances.
“I don’t regret a minute of it but these days I’ve got to listen to my body when it tells me that I’m pushing it too hard.”
St Kilda coach Ross Lyon paid tribute to his burly forward.
“Football can be a gruelling sport but when your body tells you to rest, you need to rest,” Lyon said.
“Fraser is one of the most popular players in the competition and will be an inspiration to the game for many years to come.”
While Gehrig has not officially hung up his boots, it seems increasingly unlikely he will pull on a St Kilda jumper again.
However by placing Gehrig on the long-term injury list, the Saints are in the position to elevate a rookie-listed player and give him the chance to play senior football.
