The Athlete’s Spine—Lumbar Herniated Nucleus Pulposus

Lumbar herniated nucleus pulposus is common among athletes given the physical stresses placed upon the lumbar spine with various athletic activities. Although the natural course is generally favorable with conservative management, the reproducible success of lumbar discectomy provides itself as an alternative treatment option for the athlete. Both conservative and operative management are associated with quick recovery and return to play. This chapter reviews the natural history of lumbar herniated nucleus pulposus, various treatment modalities, and the athlete-specific metrics pertinent to the management of athletes.