DIFFERENT TYPES OF SURGERY
The most common surgeries on the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine in these athletes mainly concern pathologies related to wear and tear (degenerative), and repeated mechanical stress, rather than acute traumatic fractures, which are less common. In high-level skiers, the spine is subjected to extreme stress, combining repeated flexion/extension, speed, forced rotations, and above all microtrauma (shocks and vibrations) that can occur thousands of times per season. The majority of surgical procedures aim to treat the consequences of chronic overload on the discs and vertebrae.
Herniated disc surgery is the most common procedure on the lumbar spine in athletes, allowing for faster recovery. Skiing places excessive strain on the intervertebral discs, and studies show that 85 to 90% of athletes can return to competition after successful herniated disc surgery.
Spondylolisthesis is mainly a condition that affects young skiers and athletes. It is often caused by spondylolysis (a vertebral stress fracture) due to repeated hyperextension and rotation. If spondylolysis becomes unstable, it progresses to spondylolisthesis. This phenomenon is caused by the “egg” position (speed position) in alpine skiing or violent landings after jumps that put a lot of strain on the lumbar extension. However, surgery is very rarely recommended as it is difficult to resume high- level skiing afterwards.
USE OF BELTS
Level of support
Pathologies and Indications Type of skier
Characteristics/Objectives
Light to Moderate (Flexible)
Prevention Mild chronic low back pain Occasional pain Re-suming activity after acute pain Use during long car or plane journeys
All levels, including beginners and intermediate riders (for prevention).
Basic support, thermal effect, freedom of movement maintained. Ideal for regular use or prevention for skiers who do not suffer from severe conditions.
DonJoy Immostrap 2.0
Moderate to high (semi-rigid, with stays)
Acute low back pain, lumbago, sciatica and cruralgia, herniated disc (in the non-surgical phase).
Skiers with a history of pain or recovering from injury/surgery.
Strong compression and reinforced support Limits extreme movements to rest the spine and relieve pain.
DonJoy Actistrap 2.0
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