Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries in Sports and Factors Affecting Recovery
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.3815Keywords:
spinal cord, spinal injury, motivation to recover, prevention, vertebral columnAbstract
Spinal cord injuries in sports are significant and often result from forces that exceed the ability of the spine to absorb impact. The cervical and lumbar regions are particularly vulnerable due to their mobility and exposure to high forces. This paper reviews the anatomy of the spinal cord and mechanisms of common spinal cord injuries associated with sports. It also investigates the treatment and methods for early diagnosis, including imaging, which is critical for improving
recovery outcomes. Prevention strategies, including proper care, equipment, and technique are explored to reduce the risk of spinal injuries. Recovery from spinal cord injuries depends not only on the severity of the injury but also on the psychological and social factors, such as mental health and motivation. Understanding the complex interactions between the mechanisms of injury, spinal anatomy, and factors mediating recovery may facilitate injury prevention and improve treatment options for athletes at risk of a spinal cord injury.
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