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Why are young athletes more susceptible to spina bifida?
Spondylolysis is a defect in the joint spaces located in the spinal arches, usually in the lower lumbar spine (usually L5), but can also occur in the cervical spine. The impact of this disease on athletes, especially young athletes, cannot be underestimated because young bodies are growing rapidly and are also under the stress of excessive exercise.
Many cases of spina bifida tend to be asymptomatic, making diagnosis quite difficult, but when symptoms do occur, they usually present with unilateral low back pain and limited movement.
Symptoms and manifestations
In most cases, spina bifida is asymptomatic, making its diagnosis difficult and often discovered accidentally during other medical tests. Once symptoms appear, doctors will look for the following key features:
- Pain is experienced when performing the "penguin test" (i.e., during hyperextension and rotation)
- Excessive regular stretching of the waist
- Unilateral tenderness to palpation
- Typical features seen in diagnostic imaging
Causes and risk factors
Although the exact cause of spina bifida remains unclear, many scholars believe that factors in its development are related to the stress of repeated exercise. Especially in young athletes, because the spine is not fully developed and has many weaknesses, it is more likely to be injured during repeated hyperextension and rotation movements.
Research shows that spina bifida is more likely to occur in sports that require critical waist movement, especially baseball, gymnastics, and football.
Diagnostic methods
Diagnosis of spina bifida usually relies on imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT). These technologies provide a different perspective and help doctors confirm whether the condition is present. For example:
X-rayscan identify cracks in the vertebrae, but an oblique X-ray is usually needed to show specific injuries.CT scancan provide more detailed three-dimensional images to help precise diagnosis.MRIdoes not use radiation and is more suitable for examining soft tissue and bones.
Treatment Plan
Treatment for spina bifida usually includes conservative management such as physical therapy, activity restrictions, and bracing devices. Initial management recommendations are a period of rest, followed by an individualized physical therapy program.
Research shows that exercise training with deep abdominal co-contraction can significantly reduce pain and dysfunction.
Psychological and social impact
Spina bifida not only affects the physical body, but may also affect the mental health of young athletes. Athletes may experience frustration, anxiety, and social isolation during the recovery process. These psychological factors may further affect recovery rates and willingness to return to sports. Providing good social support and psychological counseling is crucial to athletes' recovery.
Summary
Spina bifida is a relatively common sports injury, with young athletes more susceptible. They are often faced with the challenge of this situation as they face training pressure and grow up. How to better protect the physical and mental health of young athletes and help them safely participate in sports is a question worthy of our in-depth consideration?
