Sports injuries can be debilitating. Did you know that up to 20 percent of all injuries that occur in sports involve an injury to the lower back or neck? Most athletic injuries to the back are sprains of the ligaments or strains of the muscles. Many injuries occur after repetitive overuse of the structures of the spine.

Sports Injury Anatomy

• The lower back is subject to a great deal of strain when participating in various sports activities. Sports with repetitive impact, twisting motions, or weight loading commonly cause damage to the lower back. These sports that cause injury include running, golf, and weightlifting.
• The neck is most commonly injured from sports that involve contact (such as football), which place the cervical spine (neck) at risk of injury.
• The upper back is less likely to be injured because it is relatively immobile and has extra support, but injuries here can involve rib fracture and intercostal neuralgia as well as intercostal muscle strains in sports that involve rotation of the torso. This includes weight training with rotation, swimming, golf, tennis, and even skiing.

Preventing Injury

Complete a thorough warm-up before starting to play. The intention of your warm-up should be to target the muscles used in the sport and to prepare the back for any stresses to come. A typical warm-up increases circulation gradually with easy movements, like walking. You should also stretch the lower and upper back and related muscles. Then start slowly with movements you will commonly use in your sport.

If you are injured or experiencing pain, please contact the offices of William Capicotto. Sports injuries can be debilitating for an athlete. We’ll work with you to develop the best and safest plan for recovery.