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Shoulder pathoanatomy in marathon kayakers
G Hagemann1, A M Rijke, M Mars
1University of Natal, Durban, South Africa.
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|July 27, 2004
Summary
Marathon kayakers frequently experience rotator cuff injuries due to overuse, not bony restrictions. Acromial and clavicular spurs correlate with supraspinatus pathology, indicating secondary impingement factors are key.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Marathon kayaking involves repetitive overhead motions, increasing the risk of shoulder injuries.
- Understanding the prevalence and causes of these injuries is crucial for athlete health and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of soft and hard tissue abnormalities in marathon kayakers' shoulders.
- To investigate the relationship between these abnormalities and potential predisposing pathoanatomical factors.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-two marathon kayakers underwent clinical shoulder examinations and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Questionnaires collected data on athlete demographics and training history.
- Statistical analysis explored correlations between clinical findings, MRI results, and athlete characteristics.
Main Results:
- Common MRI findings included acromioclavicular hypertrophy, acromial/clavicular spurs, and supraspinatus tendinitis/partial tears.
- Acromial and clavicular spurs showed a high correlation with supraspinatus muscle pathology.
- Athlete age, years kayaking, and race completion did not significantly correlate with symptoms or MRI abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Rotator cuff injuries are prevalent in marathon kayakers, often stemming from overuse and secondary impingement.
- Bony restrictions are less likely causes than overuse-related factors.
- Acromioclavicular hypertrophy is common but may relate to portaging or prior injuries.