Spinal injury considerations in the competitive diver: a case report and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Despite significant literature associated with spinal injuries and recreational diving, few articles exist regarding competitive diving injuries, with no reports pertaining specifically to spinal injuries. As a result, a case report of a collegiate diver with C5-C6 ligamentous instability requiring operative stabilization is currently presented in addition to a review of the literature.


OBJECTIVE
Present a case report of cervical C5-C6 ligamentous instability in a collegiate diver.


METHODS
Case report and literature review.


METHODS
Not applicable.


RESULTS
Not applicable.


CONCLUSIONS
Diving injuries pertaining to competitive diving do occur but to a lesser extent than would be expected given the large forces the spine experiences. Training, experience and appropriate technique greatly minimize potential spinal hazards. Persistent complaints of neck pain after a competitive diving injury mandate aggressive evaluation and further workup.
Badman
Brian L
BL
Department of Orthopedics, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100246, Gainesville, FL 32610-0246, USA.
Rechtine
Glenn R
GR
D000328:Adult; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D004242:Diving / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019838:Neck Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D011859:Radiography; D013124:Spinal Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*