Athletic activities are one of the most common causes of back injuries and spine pain in both teens and adults, and it makes sense considering all that we ask of our spine when we’re running, cutting, jumping and twisting during competition. The onset of back pain is the most obvious sign that something is wrong and you require medical attention, but it’s not the only red flag that you should watch out for during athletic activity. Below, we take a closer look at some red flags that occur during sports that suggest you may benefit from a trip to your spine specialist.
Signs You Should See A Back Doctor
Here’s a look at some of the physical signs and symptoms that suggest you’re dealing with a spine problem that could benefit from the attention of your general practitioner or a spine specialist. Sometimes these symptoms develop during a practice or a game, while other times they don’t develop until a day or two after the competition.
- Radiating Pain – Pain that is housed in one location may just be a sign of a muscle strain, cramp or spasm, especially after physical endurance. However, if your pain begins to travel, or you feel a shooting pain down your arm or leg, it’s typically a sign that you’re dealing with a pinched nerve in your back. A spine specialist can help decompress the area and return the nerve to normal function.
- Back Pain That Worsens – A lot of people feel more sore the day after athletic competition, but that’s a normal part of the muscle recovery process. However, if that soreness transitions to pain, and it continues to get worse or stays intense after 48 hours, it’s a sign that there’s more going on than meets the eye. If your pain progressively worsens, consider consulting a physician.
- It Affects How You Walk Or Run – If back discomfort is causing you to hobble or walk with a hitch in your step, odds are you’re dealing with more than just general soreness. Back injuries that affect spinal nerves or our hips can cause dysfunction during movement, and it’s a problem that is best treated head-on by a spine specialist.
- Bladder or Bowel Dysfunction – This is a symptom that typically doesn’t develop until after athletic activity has concluded, but if you have back discomfort that is coupled with bowel or bladder issues, you should seek medical attention right away. Bladder or bowel issues can be a sign of a major problem and can cause significant health issues if left untreated. If you have changes to your bladder or bowel abilities after athletic competition, call a doctor in your area.
- Limits Range Of Motion – Finally, if you notice that you’ve lost flexibility or range of motion in your spine, and stretching or gentle exercise isn’t helping the problem, you may want to consider setting up an appointment with a back doctor. From nerve issues to disc problems or osteoarthritis, a number of different issues can cause range of motion problems for your spine, so it’s best to get a specific diagnosis from a skilled physician so that you treat the true cause of pain.
If you are dealing with any of these issues during or after sports, or at times during your daily routine, pick up the phone and call Dr. Sinicropi’s office today to get back on the path to a pain free way of life.
