Spinal injury can be prevented with proper conditioning, according to the a leading orthapedic surgeon.
Researchers at the Bonati Spine Institute suggest that Olympic competitors should be used as an example of how to reduce the risk of spinal injury.
Olympic athletes are more likely to suffer from back pain than normal people, according to a study by the institute, but they are very conscious of the importance of maintaining spine health.
Dr Jo Hannafin, member of the US Olympic Committee Medical Staff, explained: "Neither Olympians nor weekend warriors are immune to back problems.
"While these injuries are common to both professional and amateur athletes alike, they can often be prevented with proper conditioning."
Experts believe that regular strengthening of core muscles can decrease the likelihood of back injury.
Last month, researchers from the University of Texas successfully demonstrated that genetically-modified stem cells can be used to restore movement in rats with spinal injury.
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