The Spine is the Tree of Life: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Radiographic Findings Related to Spinal Injuries in Athletes

This review explores spinal injuries in athletes across various sports, highlighting injury mechanisms and emphasizing the importance of radiological review in diagnosis and management. Cervical spine injuries are common in contact sports like football, while spondylolysis is prevalent in sports like soccer, baseball, and swimming due to specific movements. Imaging modalities such as MRI, CT, or plain radiographs are essential in diagnosing spine injuries, aiding radiologists in determining appropriate treatment and management strategies for athletes.

• 1
  Cervical spine injuries are frequently observed in athletes participating in contact sports, with football being a notable example.
• 2
  Athletes involved in collision sports like football, rugby, and hockey commonly experience stingers, resulting from traction and compression injuries.
• 3
  Players in sports such as soccer, baseball, and swimming are susceptible to spondylolysis, with soccer players exhibiting a higher propensity for multiple lesions.