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Nonsurgical Recovery
Thomas
Back on Track
after non-surgical
spine treatment,
including physical therapy,
at North Jersey Spine Group.
One of the track events Thomas competes in is
the triple jump, which in time, can take a toll
on even the youngest athlete. He began experiencing
mild back pain along with pain into the side of his
glutes in April 2010. Thomas didn’t think much of
the pain at first and continued on as normal. But, he
soon noticed the symptoms worsening and becoming
more persistent.
His mother made an appointment with an area
orthopedic physician. After examining Thomas, the
doctor referred Thomas to Dr. David Sundstrom at
North Jersey Spine Group because of his reputation
as a spine specialist. Dr Sundstrom ordered an MRI of
Thomas’ spine and after viewing the diagnostics, Dr.
Sundstrom explained to Thomas and his parents the
condition causing the pain. Thomas had traumatic spondylolysis at L5, without spondylolisthesis.
Spondylolysis refers to a fracture in the spine that
disconnects the anterior and posterior elements of the
bone. It is a common diagnosis for young athletes.
Spondylolysis occurs when the pars is cracked, but the
vertebrae is still aligned. If left untreated, spondylolysis
can lead to spondylolisthesis, which means the vertebrae
is no longer in the correct position.
Dr. Sundstrom next talked with Thomas and his
parents about the treatment options. He suggested
conservative care first, such as bracing and physical
therapy, before exploring surgery. Thomas wore a
brace for four months which helped support the spine
and hold it in place. He also began spine specialized
physical therapy at the North Jersey Spine Group
exercise gym. Physical therapy can increase flexibility
and strengthen muscles that support the spine. Greater
strength and flexibility will help prevent future back
strain.
While attending PT and working with the spine
specialized physical therapists, Kimberly and Cathy,
Thomas learned core strengthening exercises that
helped relieve his pain symptoms. Because the
exercises and stretches he was learning were also
strengthening his core, this would help prevent
injury in the future. Best of all, soon after beginning
the PT exercises and stretches at NJSG, Thomas no
longer had the pain symptoms.
He was limited in activity for several months
which allowed his body time to heal and get
stronger. Now, although he has given up the
triple jump event, he is not limited in activity at
all. Thomas is back on the track field competing in
the 110m and 400m hurdle events and the 4x400
relay. He still incorporates the core strengthening
exercises and stretches into his daily routine.
Best of all, he no longer suffers from the
constant back or glute pain. Thomas remarks,
“I’m back on the track team and can compete
without back pain.” Click here to download a PDF of Thomas' successful recovery.
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