Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an elite-level athlete, the physical, mental, social, and emotional benefits associated with playing sports are tremendous. That being said, inherent risks are also present in every athletic activity, and this includes the potential for spinal injuries.
The American Association of Neurological Surgeons estimates that 10.1% of all spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are related to sports. While some sports-related SCIs are acute (develop suddenly, often as the result of a traumatic injury), others are chronic (develop over a period of time due to overuse and/or constant repetitive movements).
Below, we’ve provided an overview of four common sports-related spinal cord injuries, explored possible treatment options for them, and highlighted some proactive preventative measures for maintaining a strong, healthy spine. To learn more about sports-related spinal cord injuries and receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and athletic goals, schedule a consultation with the world-class team of spine specialists at the New Jersey Spine Institute today.
Common Spinal Cord Injuries In Sports
As the name suggests, spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are injuries involving the spinal cord—the bundle of nerves that extends from the brainstem down through the lower back and acts as a crucial communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is injured, serious outcomes such as paralysis, loss of sensation, breathing problems, and/or bowel and bladder dysfunction may occur. Making a full recovery after an SCI is often possible, but proper diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Sports that involve axial loading (force applied along the spine’s axis) and/or the potential for high-impact collisions/falls put athletes at increased risk of experiencing an SCI. Such sports include diving, rugby, horseback riding, skiing, football, cycling, motor racing, gymnastics, cheerleading, baseball, golf, ice hockey, tennis, weightlifting, wrestling, and more.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, four of the most common sports-related spinal cord injuries we treat are:
Stingers
A stinger, also sometimes called a burner or a nerve pinch injury, is a cervical spine (neck) injury often associated with collision sports, such as football, ice hockey, boxing, or rugby. When significant impact to the head forces it sideways, cervical spinal cord compression and/or the over-stretching of spinal nerves in the neck region may occur. This type of spinal cord injury can cause jolts of pain that feel like electric shocks to shoot down the arm, which is why it is commonly referred to as a stinger.
Stress Fractures
Repetitive stress caused by movements such as twisting, turning, or backwards bending (extension), can lead to tiny cracks in one or more vertebrae over time. These types of spinal cord injuries are known as stress fractures and are particularly common in athletes such as golfers, divers, gymnasts, volleyball players, dancers, and cheerleaders.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, our leading spine experts specialize in the innovative treatment of spinal fractures of all kinds. Contact us today to book your appointment and learn more!
Herniations
A disc herniation can occur anywhere along the spine but is most common in the lower back. In this type of injury, repetitive twisting/turning motions and/or excessive weight and strain placed on the spine cause one or more intervertebral discs to bulge out between the vertebrae into the spinal canal, sometimes resulting in a tear or rupture. In turn, this places pressure on spinal nerves and can lead to symptoms including radiating pain, weakness, changes in sensation, and/or numbness in the extremities.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, disc herniations are one of our areas of expertise and we’ve helped many athletes make a complete and lasting recovery from this type of injury.
Strains And Sprains
Like herniated discs, muscle strains and ligament sprains can occur anywhere along the spine but are most prevalent in the lower back region. Particularly common in athletes such as golfers, weightlifters, and gymnasts, they will worsen over time without proper treatment. Our highly experienced spine specialists can help.
Preventing Sports-Related Spinal Injuries
While it is not always possible to prevent a sports-related spinal cord injury, the following measures can help reduce your risk of experiencing one:
- Strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the spine on an ongoing basis.
- Use proper technique during high-impact maneuvers, such as tackling.
- Avoid over-training and never “play through pain”.
- Stay hydrated.
- Consult a specialist right away if you suspect a spinal cord injury may have occurred.
Treatment Options For Spinal Cord Injuries
Every spine injury is unique, and at the New Jersey Spine Institute, we make it a priority to personalize each treatment plan based on the specific needs and goals of the patient. Treatment options for sports-related SCIs may include one or more of the following:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often key in helping patients regain strength, flexibility, range of motion, and overall function after a spinal cord injury. Treatment sessions typically involve hands-on techniques as well as targeted stretching and strengthening exercises designed to be repeated at home on an ongoing basis.
Medication
Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other medications can help temporarily alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with a spinal cord injury. Minimally invasive pain management procedures such as epidural or facet joint injections may also be recommended.
Surgery
If a spinal cord injury is severe and/or unresponsive to more conservative treatment approaches, surgery may be necessary. At the New Jersey Spine Institute, our highly trained and experienced spine surgeons will develop an effective surgical plan based on the specifics of your case.
When Injury Occurs, Speak To The Board-Certified Surgeons At The New Jersey Spine Institute
Contact us directly to book an appointment and learn more about our cutting-edge non-surgical and surgical solutions for sports-related spinal cord injuries. We look forward to working with you!