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Multiple cervical spinous process fractures in a novice golf player
Sei-Yoon Kim1, Sang Ki Chung, Dong-Yun Kim
1Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul Chuk Spine Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
|January 25, 2013
Summary
A golfer experienced sudden neck pain, resulting in C6 and C7 spinous process fractures. This case highlights a rare injury mechanism potentially linked to the golf swing, even in novice players.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Clay-shoveler's fracture (spinous process avulsion) is typically associated with strenuous physical labor.
- Multiple spinous process fractures are rare, with only one prior reported case in a novice golfer.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old female novice golfer presented with severe posterior neck pain after a golf swing.
- The patient reported a sudden, sharp pain in the neck immediately after the club head impacted the ground.
- Radiographic and MRI findings confirmed fractures of the C6 and C7 spinous processes without spinal cord involvement.
Findings:
- The patient's neck pain gradually improved with conservative treatment, including pain medication and cervical bracing.
- The injury mechanism was consistent with a Clay-shoveler's fracture, suggesting a link between golf swings and lower cervical spinous process fractures.
- This case represents a rare instance of multiple spinous process fractures in a golfer.
Implications:
- Lower cervical spinous process fractures can occur in golfers, even novices, due to the biomechanics of the golf swing.
- Clinicians should consider spinous process fractures in patients with persistent neck pain and a history of golf activity.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the association between golf and these specific fractures.
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