Weightlifting Injuries
Weightlifting and fitness sports are popular activities practiced by millions of people worldwide. However, incorrect technique, overloading, or inadequate warm-up can lead to serious spinal injuries. These injuries typically occur in the lumbar region and can significantly impact daily life.
What Are Weightlifting Injuries?
Common Weightlifting Injuries
Disc Herniation
The excessive load on the spine during heavy lifting can cause intervertebral discs to tear and herniate. This results in severe back pain and radiating pain to the legs.
Muscle Strains and Tears
Strains in the paraspinal and back muscles are the most common type of injury. Sudden movements or overloading cause this condition.
Facet Joint Syndrome
Damage and inflammation in spinal facet joints can lead to chronic back pain.
Spondylolisthesis
Vertebral slippage can occur due to repetitive stress, with higher risk during deadlifts and squats.
Signs and Symptoms
- Sudden onset severe back pain
- Pain radiating to legs (sciatica)
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Limited range of motion
- Numbness and tingling
- Weakness
Diagnostic Methods
Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk applies a comprehensive evaluation process:
- Physical Examination: Detailed neurological assessment
- MRI Imaging: Detection of disc and soft tissue damage
- CT Scan: Bone structure evaluation
- EMG: Nerve damage assessment
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment
Most weightlifting injuries can be treated with conservative methods:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Pain management (medication)
- Epidural injections
Endoscopic Spine Surgery
For cases not responding to conservative treatment, Prof. Dr. Salim Şentürk's expertise in endoscopic surgery is applied:
- Incision smaller than 8mm
- Minimal muscle damage
- Same-day discharge
- Quick return to sports
Prevention
- Learn proper technique
- Gradual load increase
- Adequate warm-up
- Core strengthening
- Regular flexibility exercises
Return to Sports
After endoscopic surgery, athletes can typically begin light training within 4-6 weeks and return to full performance within 3 months.
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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