Spine injuries in the aesthetic athlete

Abstract

The aesthetic athlete is a unique combination of athleticism and artistry. Their training begins at a young age with increased demands and high-level performance by their adolescence. They are susceptible to spine injuries based on the unique physical and aesthetic demands of their art/sport and errors in technique and training. The biomechanics of dance, gymnastics, and figure skating is explored as it applies to risk for spinal injury. This is followed by a discussion on spinal injuries in the aesthetic athlete. Injuries reviewed include spondylolysis, posterior element overuse syndrome, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, disc injury, Schuermann's and atypical Schuermann's, scoliosis, and mechanical back pain. Injury diagnosis, rehabilitation, and prevention are addressed.