Spinal Injuries & Trauma

Sports-Related Spine Injuries

Understanding Spine Injuries in Athletes

Sports demand strength, flexibility, and endurance — but they also place stress on the spine. From minor strains to fractures and disc injuries, sports-related spine injuries can affect athletes of all ages and skill levels. At Desert Spine and Pain, we understand how devastating it can feel when back or neck pain keeps you from your sport. Led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, a nationally recognized neurosurgeon, our Phoenix-based team specializes in diagnosing and treating sports-related spine injuries with a focus on safe, effective return-to-play.

Over 100 5-Star Reviews!

LogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogo

Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.

What Are Sports-Related Spine Injuries?

Sports-related injuries can involve:

  • Muscle strains and ligament sprains – Common in contact or high-intensity sports

  • Stress fractures – Such as spondylolysis, often in young athletes

  • Disc herniations – Especially in weightlifters or athletes with repetitive bending/twisting See Herniated Disc

  • Nerve injuries – Compression leading to sciatica or radiculopathy

  • Fractures from trauma – From contact sports, falls, or accidents See Spinal Injuries & Trauma

Common Sports That Contribute to Spine Injuries

  • Football & wrestling – High-impact collisions leading to fractures and nerve compression

  • Gymnastics & dance – Backbends and twists stressing the lower spine

  • Weightlifting – Heavy loads straining discs and joints

  • Running – Repetitive stress leading to overuse injuries

  • Golf & tennis – Twisting motions contributing to disc or joint problems

Symptoms

  • Localized back or neck pain

  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

  • Radiating pain into arms or legs (nerve irritation)

  • Stiffness, reduced flexibility, or muscle spasms

  • Weakness, tingling, or numbness in severe cases


Diagnosis

At Desert Spine and Pain, evaluation includes:

  1. History & exam – Reviewing sports activity, pain patterns, and performance limitations

  2. Imaging –

    • X-rays for bone alignment and fractures

    • MRI for discs, ligaments, and nerves

    • CT scans in selected cases for bone detail

  3. Specialized testing – If nerve damage or instability is suspected

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Care

Most sports-related injuries heal with conservative treatment:

  • Rest and temporary break from sport

  • Medications (anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants)

  • Physical Therapy for core stability, posture, and gradual return-to-play

  • Bracing for stress fractures or instability

  • Activity modification and sports-specific rehabilitation

Interventional Treatments

  • Epidural Steroid Injections for disc-related nerve pain

  • Facet joint injections or RFA for arthritis-related pain

Surgical Options

Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered for:

  • Large disc herniations not responding to conservative care

  • Severe fractures or instability

  • Nerve compression causing weakness

  • Procedures may include Microdiscectomy, Fusion, or Minimally Invasive Surgery


Recovery Timeline

  • Mild strains/sprains – Days to weeks

  • Stress fractures – Several months with rest and rehab

  • Disc herniations – 6–12 weeks with conservative care, longer if surgery required

  • Surgical recovery – MIS procedures may allow return in 8–12 weeks; fusion requires longer rehab

Return-to-play decisions are individualized and guided by imaging, healing progress, and sport-specific demands.


Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?

  • Nationally recognized neurosurgeon – Dr. Greenwald specializes in sports-related spine injuries and minimally invasive solutions

  • Conservative-first philosophy – Surgery only when necessary

  • Comprehensive approach – Therapy, rehab, injections, and surgery under one roof

  • Athlete-focused care – Tailored treatment to get you back in the game safely

Frequently Asked Questions

Are sports-related back injuries permanent?

Not usually. With rest, therapy, and proper treatment, most athletes fully recover.


Do young athletes recover faster from spondylolysis?

Yes. With rest and guided rehab, most return to sports within months.


Is surgery common for sports-related spine injuries?

No. The majority of athletes recover with conservative care. Surgery is only needed for severe or persistent cases.


Can athletes return to the same level of performance?

Yes. With proper treatment and rehab, most return to their prior level of competition.


How does Desert Spine and Pain treat sports-related injuries differently?

We combine expert neurosurgical care with sports-specific rehab, ensuring safe return-to-play while minimizing reinjury risk.

Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD

Neuro-Spine Surgeon

Call Now!

Desert Spine and Pain

A Spine Specialist is standing by.

Relief is just a phone call away!

Available Around the Clock.

Phone: (602) 566-9500

Email: [email protected]

Phoenix, AZ, USA

Contact Us

Schedule a Consultation.

If a sports-related spine injury is keeping you from performing at your best, Dr. Greenwald and his experienced team are here to help you get back in motion. Through precise diagnosis, targeted treatment, and expert rehabilitation guidance, we’ll help you recover fully and reduce your risk of future injury. Every step you take toward recovery brings you closer to peak performance and pain-free movement. Schedule your consultation today and start your path back to an active, healthy lifestyle.

Voted Best Spine Doctor

Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.

Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine

Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon with advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating sports-related spine injuries. Athletes and active individuals are particularly prone to back and neck injuries caused by overuse, impact, or improper movement, which can result in conditions such as herniated discs, spondylolysis, or muscle strain. Dr. Greenwald takes a comprehensive approach—using advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to accurately identify the source of pain and develop personalized treatment plans that prioritize rapid recovery and long-term spine health. His goal is to help patients of all activity levels return to the sports and activities they love safely and with confidence.

Book your Spine Care Consultation Today!

Desert Spine and Pain

Patient Centered & Partner Focused

Quick Links

© Desert Spine and Pain. 2025. All Rights Reserved.