Getting Athletes Back in Motion
Minimally invasive spine surgery that supports performance, recovery, and return to sport.
Athletes & Spine Care
Understanding the Athlete’s Body
Athletes demand extraordinary performance from their bodies — and the spine is no exception.
Just as knees, hips, and shoulders can be injured, so can the spine. Yet athletes also expect exceptional recovery, aiming to return to peak performance quickly and safely.
Athletes & Spine Care
Experience Across All Levels
Whether you’re a high-performing professional or a recreational weekend warrior, endoscopic spine surgery is often the ideal path to getting back to the activities you love.
Dr. Mahan has treated countless athletes across all ages and ability levels. He doesn’t believe that turning 80 means giving up skiing. As an avid skier and marathoner — with Ironman and ultramarathon finishes — he personally understands the mindset, drive, and recovery goals of athletes. His treatment philosophy integrates that same discipline into finding the right surgical solution for each patient.
Athletes & Spine Care
Why Endoscopic Surgery Means Faster Recovery
One of the most valued benefits of endoscopic spine surgery is its rapid recovery.
Two key factors make this possible: minimal muscle trauma and constant fluid irrigation during surgery.
Because the camera lens is positioned at the tip of the endoscopic instrument, surgeons see directly at the spinal level — without pulling muscle away as in open surgery — resulting in far less tissue damage. Continuous irrigation also reduces postoperative inflammation, helping patients heal faster.
Athletes & Spine Care
Returning to Training and Competition
Return-to-sport timing depends on the procedure, the specific spinal issue, and your athletic demands.
Some surgeries involve minimal downtime, allowing you to resume training as comfort allows. Others require a short period of protection to ensure proper healing.
All of these factors — and any alternative options — are discussed upfront so you can make a fully informed decision and return to doing what you love as safely as possible.
