Papers of the Week

Sports-related spinal injuries can be catastrophic in nature. Athletes competing in collision sports (e.g., football) may be particularly prone to injury given the high-impact nature of these activities. Due to the profound impacts on health and quality-of-life, sports-related spinal injuries are also associated with a risk of litigation. However, no study to date has assessed litigation risks associated with sports-related spinal injuries. A better understanding of the risk factors surrounding these legal claims may provide insights into injury prevention and strategies to minimize litigation risks. In addition, it may allow the spine surgeon to better recognize the health, socioeconomic, and legal challenges faced by this patient population.