The effect of a rehabilitation program for patients with mild disc herniation (L4-L5-S1) and its impact on the physical abilities of tennis players

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a therapeutic rehabilitation program targeting individuals with lumbar disc herniation of the fourth and fifth vertebrae and the first sacral vertebra. Tennis requires players to perform many repetitive and rapid rotational movements, which can lead to a portion of the disc shifting from its natural position, causing lower back pain and a decline in physical performance. This highlights the problem addressed in our research and motivates us to develop an effective rehabilitation program that considers the specific needs of tennis players and contributes to pain relief and improved physical abilities, ensuring their safe and rapid return to the courts. The researcher used an experimental approach with a sample of five injured tennis players. These players were examined by a specialist to determine the type of injury, and then the rehabilitation program was implemented for six weeks, with three sessions per week. The program included core strengthening exercises, balance exercises, and other exercises. Flexibility, breathing and relaxation exercises, with a gradual increase in intensity and load. Physical variables were measured before and after the program, including tests of both strength endurance and maximum strength. The results showed statistically significant differences in favor of the post-tests, indicating the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program in improving physical abilities and reducing the symptoms associated with herniated discs, which positively impacts the athletic performance of the tennis player. The researcher recommends the adoption of this type of rehabilitation program within the treatment plans for injured athletes.