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European Spine Journal

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06-06-2023 | Disc Herniation | Original Article

Return to sports following discectomy: does a consensus exist?

Authors: Henrik C. Bäcker, Michael A. Johnson, Jack Hanlon, Patrick Chan, Peter Turner, John Cunningham

Published in: European Spine Journal | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Introduction

In the USA, lumbar discectomy is one of the most commonly performed spinal procedures. As certain sports are considered to be major risk factors for disc herniation, the question remains as to when highly active patients should return to their previous level of activity. This study aimed to analyze spine surgeons’ opinions on when patients may return to activities following discectomy as well as their underlying rationale for their decision.

Methods

A questionnaire was designed by five different fellowship-trained spine surgeons for the 168 members of the Spine Society of Australia. Questions on the surgeons experience, decision making, preferred surgical technique, the postoperative rehabilitation and the response to patient expectations were included.

Results

In total, 83.9% of surgeons discuss the postoperative level of activity with their patients. Sport is considered as an important contributor for good functional outcome by 71.0% of surgeons. Surgeons recommend avoiding, often permanently, weightlifting (35.7%) of the time, rugby (21.4%), horseback riding (17.9%) as well as martial arts (14.3%) postoperatively even with previous training. The return to high levels of activity is considered as a major risk factor for disc herniation recurrence by 25.8% of surgeons. Return to high level of activity is typically recommended after 3 months by 48.4% of surgeons.

Conclusion

So far no consensus on the rehabilitation protocol and return to level of activity exists. Recommendations depend on personal experience as well as the individuals’ training, and typically, a period of avoidance of sport for up to 3 months is recommended.

Level of evidence: Level III, therapeutic and prognostic study.

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Title: Return to sports following discectomy: does a consensus exist?
Authors: Henrik C. Bäcker
Michael A. Johnson
Jack Hanlon
Patrick Chan
Peter Turner
John Cunningham
Publication date: 06-06-2023
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keyword: Disc Herniation
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue 1/2024
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-023-07776-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Return to sports following discectomy: does a consensus exist?

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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