Why Are Disc Herniation Injuries So Common in Athletes?

Your spine is made up of small bones called vertebrae, which are cushioned and supported by discs. When you have a herniated disc, a tear has caused its gel-like center to leak out.

While most anyone can experience disc herniation, athletic activity raises your risk. But staying physically active doesn’t mean the condition is inevitable. 

Dr. Nicholas Perenich and his team at Spine Institute of Florida in Dade City and Spring Hill diagnose and treat athletic spine injuries, including herniated discs, to ease your symptoms and help you get back to your sport.

We put together the following information to help you understand the link between athletics and disc herniation, as well effective treatments and prevention tips.

How herniated discs happen

Anything that puts pressure on the discs in your spine can lead to herniation. Herniated discs usually stem from gradual wear-and-tear or a sudden injury.

Engaging in athletics frequently for years can accelerate the age-related wear-and-tear on your spine that causes herniation. Sudden impact injuries, like being tackled on the football field or falling on the basketball court, can also cause a herniated disc.

Other factors that contribute to disc herniation include genetics, smoking, frequent driving, carrying excess weight, and leading a sedentary lifestyle. 

Herniated disc symptoms

A herniated disc can present in various ways, including asymptomatically. When symptoms do unfold, they often include:

• Arm or leg pain
• Back or neck pain
• Radiating numbness or tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty moving or using the affected area

The low back is particularly prone to herniated disc symptoms, but you can also experience them in or around your neck.

Herniated disc treatment

After a comprehensive exam, the Spine Institute of Florida team can recommend your best herniated disc treatment. We typically start with conservative care, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and epidural injections.

If your symptoms are severe or carry on after conservative treatment, we may recommend minimally invasive surgery. This procedure takes about 30 minutes, requires only a half-inch incision, and usually allows you to return to work within a day or two.

Herniated disc prevention

Whether you wish to prevent a second herniated disc or avoid the injury altogether, you can take steps to lower your risk. 

Helpful measures include:

• Using proper athletic technique, especially for high-impact sports and weight-lifting
• Warming up before stretching
• Avoiding overtraining
• Maintaining strong core muscles
• Managing stress
• Wearing supportive shoes
• Quitting or avoiding smoking

And if you notice early signs of a herniated disc, come into our office sooner than later so you can get treated before matters worsen.

To learn more about herniated discs in athletes or get started with effective treatment, call Spine Institute of Florida or schedule an appointment through our website today.