Athletes are at a higher risk of suffering a back injury due to the intense physical activity they participate in. Whether the sport is gymnastics, basketball, football, weight training, or simply all around physical fitness, the spine experiences greater amounts of pressure and stress, twisting, flexion, extension and even bodily impact than an individual whom does not engage in strenuous physical activities. The demanding training and exercises of athletes can place significant amounts of force on the spine which may cause damage or injury to even the best and most fit athletes.
Although the entire spine is used during a majority of sports, it is estimated that a considerable amount of athletic injuries are associated with the lumbar spine, or low back. The prevalent rate of low back pain in athletes range from 1 percent to 40 percent. Back injuries in younger athletes are a common circumstance, resulting in 10 percent to 15 percent of individuals.
Back pain in athletes can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain. Acute back pain is characterized by unexpected symptoms which usually last from several days to several weeks. Chronic back pain is identified when the symptoms last for more than three months.
Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options available for athletes experiencing back pain and discomfort. A recent study researched numerous alternative treatments, including chiropractic care, to determine the efficiency of each when treating back symptoms. According to the study, chiropractic treatment showed the most promising results.
Back pain is one of the most common medical complications. Many individuals report feeling back pain symptoms after a poor night’s rest, a common occurrence where the pain and discomfort generally resolves on its own. But, when the symptoms continue over a longer period of time, it may be best to properly diagnose the cause of the individual’s back pain, especially if you are an athlete. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
By Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST Read More
Do Posture Correctors and Back Braces Actually Help Desk Workers? Abstract: Posture correctors and back… Read More
Does a Rest Weekend Undo Three Days of Repetitive Load? A weekend can quiet pain… Read More
By Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST Read More
Does Foam Rolling Actually Help—or Does It Just Feel Good? ABSTRACT: Foam rolling can change… Read More
By Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST Read More
Personal Injury, Trauma & Spine Rehab Specialists