January, 2025
Athletes often push their bodies to the limit, which can put significant strain on both the brain and spine. While exercise and sports are generally beneficial for overall health, the physical demands of certain sports can lead to specific injuries and disorders affecting the brain and spine. At IGEA Brain, Spine, and Orthopedics, we understand the unique challenges athletes face and are committed to providing effective treatment and prevention strategies for brain and spine disorders.
Concussions are one of the most common brain injuries in athletes, particularly in contact sports like football, soccer, hockey, and rugby. A concussion occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, memory loss, nausea, and sensitivity to light or noise. Treatment typically involves rest and avoiding physical or mental exertion until symptoms subside. Gradual return to activity is key, and cognitive and physical therapy may be required if symptoms persist.
Spinal cord injuries can occur from severe trauma, falls, or high-impact collisions in sports like football, gymnastics, skiing, or motocross. These injuries can result in partial or complete loss of movement or sensation below the injury site, pain, numbness, and difficulty breathing in severe cases. Immediate medical attention is required, and treatment often includes stabilization, surgery, and rehabilitation. Physical therapy can help athletes regain mobility and function.
A herniated disc happens when the gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the outer layer. This is common in athletes who perform repetitive motions, such as lifting, twisting, or sudden movements. Symptoms can include sharp pain in the back or neck, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and muscle weakness. Conservative treatments like physical therapy and medications are often effective, but in severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the herniated disc.
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. This condition is common in athletes who engage in activities that involve heavy lifting, running, or twisting motions. It can cause sharp, shooting pain in the lower back, buttocks, and legs, along with numbness or weakness in the leg. Treatment includes rest, ice and heat therapy, and physical therapy exercises. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the neck is compressed, often due to a herniated disc or bone spurs. It’s common in athletes who engage in contact sports or activities that place repetitive stress on the neck, such as wrestling or football. Symptoms include neck pain that radiates down the arm, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Physical therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage the condition, while surgery may be required if symptoms persist.
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This condition is more common in older athletes or those who engage in activities that involve heavy lifting or excessive strain on the spine. Symptoms include pain in the back or neck, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and difficulty walking or maintaining balance. Treatment may include physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, often due to stress fractures or degeneration. Athletes who perform repetitive spinal loading activities, like gymnastics or weightlifting, are more prone to this condition. Symptoms can include lower back pain, muscle stiffness, numbness or tingling in the legs, and weakness. Conservative treatments such as physical therapy, bracing, and medications are often effective, but in severe cases, surgery may be needed.
Athletes are at an increased risk for brain and spine disorders due to the physical demands of their sports. Understanding these common conditions, recognizing symptoms early, and seeking prompt treatment are essential for minimizing their impact. At IGEA Brain, Spine, and Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating these disorders, offering both surgical and non-surgical options to help athletes recover and return to their peak performance.
If you're an athlete experiencing symptoms related to brain or spine health, contact us today to discuss treatment options and get the care you need.