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Dr John Yost Jr
Dr. Yost went to college, Graduate School and Medical School at the University of Nebraska and received an MD. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons. He not only treats athletes, but is an athlete as well. His interests are cycling, swimming and running and participates in Triathlons . He also recently became a member of the Kansas AOSSM which stands for American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine!
Health & Rehabilitation
2012-10-03 11:07:53
Returning to sports after a spinal injury
A- Not only is this possible, but it is encouraged and desired. Depending on the type and severity of injury, time for recovery and return to sports varies. There are several different types of spinal injuries: The most common spinal injury is a sprain. A sprain is a tear of ligaments which are the tissue that connect bone to bone. A sprain can be mild, moderate or severe. Most people begin activity immediately following a mild sprain. Severe sprains are sometimes associated with a disk injury where the tissue can displace into the spinal canal and pinch a nerve. Though the majority of these injuries heal without surgery, recovery can take longer. Although less frequent, spine fractures may occur with the most common being a compression fracture. As we mature, our bones lose density and become more susceptible to fractures with even mild injuries. Compression fractures are stable but can take up to 6 months to completely heal. Again, early activity as tolerated is recommended. When my patients have a spinal injury I always recommend a daily back exercise program that takes 5-7 minutes in the morning and 5-7 minutes in the evening. I suggest they supplement that with activities such as jogging, swimming, and cycling. Other sports tolerated include golf, bowling, low impact aerobics, a supervised weight lifting program and skiing (which can be hazardous for beginners). More risky activities that should be performed ONLY with proper medical clearance include football, soccer, volleyball, ice hockey, and trampoline. Remember that overall fitness is vital both before and after injuries and requires exercise, proper weight, good diet, control of stress, and other healthy life choices: • Don’t Smoke! Smokers are at risk for more severe and longer lasting back attacks. Why? Smoking reduces circulation in small vessels including those that nourish the spinal disks. • Good nutrition is important! Most people need to reduce fat intake and increase vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. • Take your vitamins! Calcium and vitamin D help reduce Osteoporosis. Vitamin C aids in building collagen needed by disks. • Drink water! Staying well hydrated will slow the disk degeneration process. • Exercise! Whole body exercise is a part of fitness. Aerobic exercise beginning at 15 minutes building to a goal of 30 minutes a day is recommended. This is best accomplished through walking, swimming, bicycling.
 
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