A possibility has been explored of an accelerated development of degenerative changes in the vertebral column in those young people whose activity is connected with high physical loads on the lumbar spine. A comparative analysis was done of results of the ultrasound investigation and magnetic-resonance tomography of spinal soft tissues. Sonographic techniques permit the conclusion to be reached that there develop degenerative and inflammatory processes at the level of certain vertebral segments at the preX-ray stage when it is only the soft-tissue structures that are involved.