Effect of Rehabilitation Exercises Using Infrared Radiation Accompanied by Calcium Intake in Treating Mild Disc Herniation in Football Players

Abstract

The world has witnessed remarkable development in recent decades in terms of performance, professionalism, and attention to athletes’ health. Along with this development, the need for medical and preventive care for athletes has emerged, particularly given the increased rates of injuries resulting from intensive physical effort and highly repetitive movements.

The research aims to prepare rehabilitation exercises using infrared radiation accompanied by calcium intake to treat mild herniated discs in football players. The research sample included football players suffering from mild herniated discs at Al-Minaa Sports Club in Basra Governorate. The researchers used the experimental method through a survey approach due to its suitability for addressing the research problem. They used several devices, including an infrared radiation device, and conducted several tests, including the trunk forward-and-backward flexibility test and the maximum strength test for the back muscles. The researchers concluded that the exercises prepared by them, accompanied by calcium intake, increased the speed of pain relief and recovery. Calcium plays an important role in restoring balance within the body and reducing the risk of players developing certain conditions, including osteoporosis. Infrared radiation played an effective role in relieving pain and reducing muscle spasm, enabling the players to perform the prescribed exercises without concern.