Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, with symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) accounting for approximately 1–3% of cases. LDH frequently presents with sciatica that stems from lumbar radiculopathy. Both mechanical compression of neural structures by displaced nucleus pulposus fragments and accompanying inflammatory responses are central to LDH pathophysiology, leading to its characteristic symptoms. The primary aim of this study is to present current non-surgical treatment options for lumbar nucleus pulposus herniation and to evaluate the effectiveness of each approach. A literature review reveals that pharmacotherapy for LDH management is primarily symptomatic. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants may modestly reduce pain for some individuals, though the supporting evidence is limited. Systemic glucocorticosteroids might offer slight functional gains, and epidural steroid injections are mainly beneficial for achieving short-term radicular pain relief. Furthermore, available data highlight the important role of physiotherapy in the conservative management of the condition. Biomechanical interventions may reduce pain, enhance patient function, and, in some cases, induce favorable structural changes in the intervertebral disc.
Background. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) affect the TMJ, masticatory muscles, and related structures. They are critical in sports medicine, as athletes face unique stressors—from facial trauma to exertional bruxism—impacting postural stability and quality of life. Despite their clinical significance, standardized imaging protocols for professional athletes are lacking. Aim. This narrative review presents an evidence-based, symptom-oriented algorithm for selecting efficient imaging modalities for TMDs in athletes. It combines conventional imaging (MRI, CBCT) with cutting-edge AI and DL screening methods to establish a contemporary diagnostic protocol. Material and methods. A literature search (2018–2026) was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, WOS, and IEEE Xplore. It included studies on biomechanics, neurophysiology, sports medicine, imaging techniques (MRI, CBCT, US), and DL applications in orofacial diagnostics. Results. Diagnostic protocols should be tailored to athletes' specific clinical signs and sport-related risks. While MRI remains the gold standard for soft tissue, disc derangements, and early inflammation, CBCT offers superior resolution for osseous degeneration and fractures. Furthermore, recent DL models (e.g., TMJ-PanoNet) enable sensitive prescreening using widely available 2D panoramic radiographs. Conclusions. A symptom-oriented, AI-assisted imaging protocol improves diagnostic speed, accuracy, and treatment outcomes. Early detection of TMJ dysfunctions helps control TMD progression, reduce chronic pain, and restore biomechanical balance, potentially preventing premature career termination in professional athletes.
Burnout, defined in the ICD-11 classification as a response to chronic stress, is characterized by feelings of exhaustion, mental distancing from work, and a reduced sense of professional efficacy. This paper summarizes previous publications regarding the scale of this phenomenon, its symptoms, and coping strategies among medical students in Poland, compared with international data. The review indicates that the problem is global and increasing in magnitude— in Poland, up to 53% of students may exhibit symptoms of exhaustion, and 42% struggle with burnout, with higher rates observed among women and senior students. The article discusses the symptomatology of the syndrome, including somatic symptoms such as headaches and fatigue, as well as psychological manifestations, including cynicism, depersonalization, and impostor syndrome. Coping strategies are also presented, contrasting destructive methods (substance use, social isolation) with effective preventive techniques such as mindfulness training, cognitive reinterpretation of mistakes, and peer support.
