Professional Athlete Spine Pathologies
Elite athletes are exposed to extraordinary stress on the spine due to intense training and competition schedules. This can lead to specific spine pathologies rarely seen in the general population.
Professional Athlete Spine Pathologies
Athlete-Specific Spine Problems
Spondylolisthesis
Vertebral slippage due to repetitive hyperextension movements. Common in gymnastics, diving, and wrestling athletes.
Pars Interarticularis Stress Fracture
Stress fracture in the bone structure at the back of the spine. Common finding in young athletes.
Early Disc Degeneration
Premature aging and wear of discs due to intense physical activity.
Scheuermann Disease
Cartilage plate damage and kyphosis development in young athletes.
Risks by Sport
- Gymnastics: Spondylolisthesis, stress fractures
- Football: Disc herniation, cervical injuries
- Swimming: Lumbar pain, hyperlordosis
- Tennis/Golf: Rotational injuries
- Weightlifting: Disc pathologies
Treatment Approach for Elite Athletes
Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's athlete-focused approach:
- Minimally invasive techniques preserving performance
- Rapid return-to-sport protocols
- Sport-specific rehabilitation
- Planning considering competition schedule
Return to Sport Criteria
- Complete pain-free
- Normal range of motion
- 90%+ muscle strength recovery
- Ability to perform sport-specific movements
Other Treatments
Spine Surgery
Surgical treatment of spine and spinal cord diseases
Deformity Surgery
Deformity surgery is the surgical correction of scoliosis, kyphosis, and spinal imbalance. Effective treatment is achieved with modern techniques and implants. Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's expertise in complex deformity surgery.
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive technique performed through an 8 mm incision. Same-day discharge and rapid recovery are possible for lumbar and cervical disc herniations. Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's endoscopic surgery expertise.
Peripheral Nerve Surgery
Peripheral nerve surgery treats nerve compressions, injuries, and tumors. Carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, and nerve tumors are treated surgically. Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's nerve surgery expertise.
Reviewed by: Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk, Neurosurgeon
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