The Most Common Sports-Related Spinal Injuries

People who play professional sports are generally more at risk of injury than the general population.

In every sport, there is always a chance that someone can get hurt, and this could happen for any number of reasons. This is especially the case for those who play contact sports.

Although sporting injuries can often be minor, there is also the possibility that serious injuries can occur, such as damage to the spinal cord.

Spinal Cord Injury

An injury to the spinal cord can have a life-changing impact on a patient’s life.

If you have experienced this type of injury, then you may now be asking what to do after you have a spinal cord injury?

The answer to this question will vary depending on the severity of your condition, but the first step should always be to seek an immediate and professional diagnosis. Do not delay seeking medical attention, as this could prolong your recovery period.

The most common sports-related spinal injuries are:

• Vertebral stress fractures
• Cervical stingers
• Herniated discs
• Sprains and strains

Read on for more information about these four common conditions.

Vertebral Stress Fractures

Vertebral stress fractures may present when a person repetitively moves their body in twisting and turning motions. Moving the body in this way often places a great deal of pressure on the spine, which can lead to a stress fracture over time.

Symptoms of this condition include bruising in the affected area, as well as swelling and pain.

Cervical Stingers

This is a condition that usually presents in those who play contact sports. When one person collides with another, this can impact the nerves in the neck.

When the nerves are compressed due to collision, this can cause an electric shock-type feeling of pain from the neck and through the arms.

This is a very brief experience but could cause further damage to the body if repeated over time.

Herniated Discs

When the discs of the spine are overloaded, this can cause one or more to slip and herniate.

This can be a very painful condition and can also lead to the hands, arms, feet, and legs becoming weak and numb.

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains of the lower back can present due to overuse or improper training.

An injury of this nature can involve bruising and pain, as well as feelings of weakness in the back. Although a sprain or a strain may not sound very serious, it can dramatically impede an athlete’s ability to perform at their best.

Staying Safe

Staying completely safe while playing sports is not always possible. As with any kind of physical activity, there is always going to be a risk of accident and injury.

Although it is not possible to entirely protect against injury, it is possible to strengthen and prepare the body through exercise and nutrition products. This will not only help the body to be fully prepared for the sport in question but can also help to speed up the recovery time if an incident does take place.

Staying safe should always be a priority for those who play sports.