Injuries ranging from bone abnormalities to strained ligaments and muscles can cause back pain in athletes. When back pain is terrible, lasts for an extended period, gets worse, affects your daily activities, or prevents you from competing, visit a back doctor. The following are the six causes and treatments for back pain in athletes:
Causes of Back Pain in Athletes
Any discomfort or pain could hinder your athletic performance. Getting treatment as soon as possible can help you have a speedy recovery. Back pain might be a result of different causes, including:
Muscle Strain
Overextending back muscles or a violent jerking motion can lead to stretching or tearing of the muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Common symptoms of muscle strain include soreness in the injured area as well as pain in the joints, pelvis, or tailbone. Your back doctor should recommend treatment options to avoid potential chronic back pain later in life.
Herniated Disks
A spinal disk cushions the vertebrae and may become damaged if overused or strained. When the outside of the disk becomes torn or inflamed, the interior nucleus of the disk can slip out, causing pain. Herniated disks often occur in the lower back and result in severe pain when raising your legs or bending at the waist.
Vertebral Body Fractures
Vertebral body fractures, especially ones that affect the cartilage ring found at the extremity of the vertebrae, can lead to back pain. This condition primarily affects athletes in weightlifting, volleyball, and gymnastics. The pain may be abrupt and resembles herniated disk pain but without neurologic signs like muscle spasms or slowed movements.
Treatments for Back Pain in Athletes
To diagnose and determine treatment options, a back doctor will conduct a thorough exam. X-rays are often used to check movement when bending, joint spaces, and spine alignment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is preferred for persistent cases like vertebral stress fractures. Doctors may also perform blood work to check for any diseases affecting muscles and joints. Post-exam treatment options might include:
Anti-inflammatory Medication
Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications like naproxen and ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and pain. Depending on your condition, they may prescribe a stronger medication for chronic back pain. Doctors might also recommend other non-invasive treatments like rest, stretching, and applying ice.
Exercise
Exercise helps athletes recover faster as it strengthens the back and abdomen muscles that support the spine. When these muscles become stronger, back or joint pain is likely to decrease. Exercise also helps reduce pressure and muscle tension, improve blood flow, and increase flexibility.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a common, noninvasive option to prevent and treat back pain. Therapy programs focus on an athlete’s condition and combine low-impact, strengthening, and stretching exercises. Most exercises strengthen back muscles, increase functionality, and reduce back pain.
Find a Reliable Back Doctor
Visit a back doctor if your back pain is severe and persists or if you suspect it might cause nerve compression. Choose a doctor with experience treating athletes, and get back on the field quickly. Contact a spine doctor today to begin your recovery journey.
