Contact sports such as football, soccer, rugby, baseball, boxing, and wrestling predispose one to spine related injuries. Indeed, sports and recreational activities account for 8% of spinal cord injuries according to a survey carried out by the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. Though the injury might initially appear minor, the spine is very vulnerable, and if not immediately attended to by a qualified spine doctor in New York, it can cause long-lasting effects. In as much as one may have taken precautions by donning protective gear during sports, the following spine injuries can still occur:-
Neck injury
Though neck injuries are often associated with motor vehicle accidents, they also occur in sports. The victim might not feel the symptoms immediately, but pain and stiffness are experienced after some time due to neck ligament damage or muscle strain. Often, this goes away after the victim undergoes physiotherapy treatment that includes neck massage and joint mobilization. A spine doctor in New York is best placed to advise you on how to effectively treat the neck injury. In severe cases, a neck fracture may occur. This should be attended to immediately to alleviate the dangers of neurological impairment or even death.
Lower back injury
Majority of the sporting activities put a tremendous strain on the lower back, leading to lower back injuries, also known as spondylolisthesis. Continuous running, twisting and lifting weights all strain the lower back muscles and ligaments, and may in severe cases cause disc dislocation. Most of the lower back injury victims complain of pain radiating from the tailbone and moving down to the thighs. Plenty of rest is advised in the event of a lower back injury. In some cases, braces may be necessary to keep the back stable, while surgery may be carried out in severe spondylolisthesis.
Upper back injury
An upper neck injury is one that occurs from the base of the neck to the bottom of the rib cage. Though relatively uncommon because this part is supported by the ribs and is mostly immobile, upper back injuries still occur in sports. Symptoms associated with this type of injuries include muscle stiffness, sharp or dull pain, and in severe cases, arms and legs weakness, poor bladder control and poor bowel movement. Exercise and physical therapy are recommended to treat upper back injuries. Pain medications can help alleviate the pain, but surgery rarely used to remedy this.
It is highly recommended that you consult a qualified in as much as some home remedies such as using a heating pad or applying an ice pack may appear to work.
Millions of Americans suffer from back or neck pain at some point in their lives. The Weill Cornell center for comprehensive spine care can diagnose and treat such pains. Our physicians are highly trained to handle a wide array of spine injuries; schedule an appointment with us today for more information.
