Epidemiology of causes, and management of severe spinal injuries in elite male wrestlers.

Abstract

Spinal injuries are common in wrestlers, this study aimed to investigate the characteristics and post-injury management practices of severe spinal injuries among elite male wrestlers, with a comparative analysis between Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling styles. A total of 110 elite male wrestlers (55 Greco-Roman and 55 freestyle athlete). Using a questionnaire, interviews were conducted severe spinal injuries and their post-injury management practices. Approximately 30.9% of participants reported experiencing severe spinal injuries, and among them, 58.8% were re-injury. These injuries predominantly occurred during technical training sessions due to overuse mechanisms during offensive maneuvers. Among the injured athletes, only 38.2% received specialized rehabilitation, and 35.3% obtained medical clearance before returning to play. Greco-Roman was found to have a significantly higher risk of re-injury compared to freestyle (odds ratio=5.24, 95% confidence interval=1.09-21.25). There were significant differences in the specific situations causing spinal injuries between wrestling styles (p=0.018). In conclusion, this study demonstrate that elite male wrestlers are at high risk of severe spinal injury and re-injury, yet they often lack adequate post-injury management. Moreover, the differences in re-injury rates and specific situations causing injuries based on wrestling styles, emphasizing the need for tailored prevention and management strategies for each style.