Distal ulnar neuropathy in a golf player

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sports Medicine
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Repetitive gripping activities can lead to focal neuropathies.
• Amateur golfers may experience sport-specific musculoskeletal or neurological issues.
• Ulnar nerve entrapment can occur in the hand due to external compression.

Observation:

• A 51-year-old golfer presented with fasciculations in the left first dorsal interosseous muscle.
• Symptoms persisted for 3 weeks without reported pain or neurological deficits.
• Clinical examination revealed no motor or sensory deficits.

Findings:

• Nerve conduction studies and electromyography confirmed mononeuropathy of the deep palmar branch of the ulnar nerve.
• The condition was localized to the left palm.
• Forceful gripping of a golf club handle was identified as the likely cause.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare cause of focal neuropathy in athletes.
• Modifying grip technique in golf can prevent or resolve ulnar nerve compression.
• Early identification and conservative management are key for symptom resolution in similar cases.