Thoracolumbar Injuries in the Athlete

Background: Thoracolumbar injuries are among the common injuries in athletes that can have a profound impact on their sports performance and quality of life. These areas are susceptible to damage due to the stresses caused by intense sports activities, falls, and accidents. Thoracolumbar injuries can include fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries, each requiring specific treatment approaches. This study examines the methods and outcomes of treating these injuries in athletes, as well as their effects on returning to the field and sports activities. Methods: This study involves the analysis of data from athletes with thoracolumbar injuries at reputable medical centers. Information collected includes age, gender, type of sport, type and severity of injury, treatment method, and duration of recovery. Data were analyzed descriptively and analytically. Treatment methods included non-surgical options (such as physiotherapy and medication) and surgical options (such as stabilization and repair). Additionally, evaluation criteria included functional scores and the rate of return to sports activities. Results: Data analysis revealed that the highest incidence of injuries occurred among athletes in dynamic sports, particularly in ball sports and martial arts like football and rugby. Among the surveyed athletes, ۶۰% suffered from thoracolumbar fractures, while ۴۰% experienced soft tissue injuries. Moreover, non-surgical treatments were effective in ۷۰% of the patients, and of these patients, ۸۰% were able to return to their regular sports activities. The need for surgery was higher in athletes with disc injuries and vertebral fractures. However, in more severe cases, there was a greater expectation for surgical treatment. After surgery, ۹۰% of patients achieved positive outcomes and returned to their sports backgrounds, though the recovery time in this group was longer. Additionally, factors influencing recovery time included age, type of sport, and injury severity. Conclusion: Chest injuries in athletes present a complex and potentially serious array of sports-related injuries. Although these injuries are less common than those in other regions of the spine, they can have significant effects on an athlete's career and long-term health. The unique biomechanics of different sports play a crucial role in the development of acute and chronic thoracic injuries, highlighting the importance of sport-specific injury prevention and management strategies. Furthermore, effective diagnosis and treatment require a comprehensive approach that includes thorough clinical assessment, appropriate imaging, and an understanding of the specific biomechanics of the sport.

کلیدواژه ها:

Thoracolumbar injuries ، athletes ، spinal injuries ، sports trauma ، rehabilitation ، prevention ، surgical intervention