Return to contact sports after spinal surgery

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Evaluating injured athletes for return to contact sports post-spinal surgery presents complex challenges.
• Established guidelines are crucial for ensuring athlete safety and informed decision-making.

Framework:

• This paper outlines a successful return-to-play framework developed over two decades.
• The framework addresses professional and amateur athletes requiring spinal surgery.

Implementation:

• The institutional guidelines have been refined through extensive clinical experience.
• Focus is placed on objective criteria and individualized athlete assessments.

Implications:

• Implementing standardized return-to-play protocols can enhance outcomes for athletes post-spinal surgery.
• This approach aids clinicians in managing complex return-to-sport decisions.