Anderson Silva sustained a scare on Monday when the former UFC middleweight champion felt severe back pain after training jiu-jitsu in XGym Academy in Rio de Janeiro.
Hobbled by what he described as lower back pain, Silva reported that he could not feel his legs. He was transported to Barra D'Or Hospital, where he underwent several exams.
Silva was diagnosed with lumbago (pain in the lumbar region) by orthopedic spine specialist Dr. Sergio Gurgel, Combate.com reported.
The former king of the middleweight division has a history of back pain and this is not the first time he has sustained a back strain or injury. He was advised to rest for a few days to not compromise his physical condition, and was told he can return to training soon.
The sore back won't affect the fight against Nick Diaz, set for UFC 183 on Jan. 31 in Las Vegas.
According to Dr. Márcio Tannure, director of the Brazilian MMA Athletic Commission (CABMMA) and Silva’s personal doctor, the loss of feeling in The Spider’s lower legs is not uncommon with this type of lumbar strain.
Lumbago can cause severe pain radiating down the legs, a condition known as sciatica, as well as feelings of numbness from irritated nerves as they modulate to the lower limbs. It is an extremely common disorder that affects the bones and muscles of the lower back.
Silva was released from Barra D'Or Hospital early Tuesday. He told Davi Correia of UFC.com.br that he is feeling fine and will return to training shortly.
