"In the ‘new age’ of figure skating, the emphasis on difficult spin variations such as biellmans, haircutters, laybacks, and catch-foot camels has resulted in a greater amount of back injuries. These injuries result from repetitive hyperextension of the spinal joints, not a naturally occurring motion. By repeatedly performing and maintaining these positions, a skater puts abnormal, excessive pressure on the joints of the lumbar (lower) spine that may result in slippage or fracture of the vertebrae, a herniated disc, or inflammation of a facet joint. This article focuses on the lower back injury ‘spondylolisthesis,’ which is becoming more prevalent in the sport of figure skating." Purchase to read more....
