Back Pain and Radiologic Changes in the Thoraco-Lumbar Spine of Athletes

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Abstract
Back pain and radiological changes of the thoracolumbar spine were investigated in 142 top athletes, representing wrestling, gymnastics, soccer and tennis (age range 14-25 years). All groups of athletes reported back pain at high frequencies (50-85%). Male gymnasts had significantly increased incidence and severity of back pain as compared to the rest of the athletes. Radiological abnormalities occurred in 36-55% of the athletes. Reduced disc height, Schmorl's nodes and change of configuration of vertebral bodies correlated with back pain (P<0.05, P<0.01 and P<0.05): Significant covariation between these types of abnormalities was found. Athletes with great demands on the back are thus subjected to an increased risk of symptomatic damage of the spine.

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