Spine Surgery in Athletes With Low Back Pain-Considerations for Management and Treatment

While degenerative lumbar spine conditions are common in the general population,there are unique considerations when diagnosed in high-level athletes. genetic factors have been identified as a more significant contributor to the development of degenerative disc disease than occupational risks,however,some have postulated that the incessant training of young,competitive athletes may put them at a greater risk for accelerated disease. the evidence-based literature regarding lumbar disc herniation in elite athletes suggests that it is reasonable to expect excellent clinical outcomes and successful return-to-sport after either operative or non-operative treatment regardless of sport played. however,those athletes who require repetitive torque on their lumbar spines may have poorer long-term outcomes if surgical treatment is required for this condition. painful spondylolysis in the athlete can often be treated successfully with non-operative treatment,however,if surgery is required,pars repair techniques provides a motion-sparing alternative that may lead to successful return to sport.