Capitellar osteochondritis dissecans in an elite pre-adolescent gymnast: a case report and overview

Following sports injury, a timely and accurate diagnosis is important, so as to initiate appropriate care as soon as possible. This is perhaps even more paramount in pediatric athletic trauma, particularly during the pre-puberty through adolescent years of rapid skeletal growth. This paper presents the diagnosis and management of osteochondritis dissecans in its third most common location, the elbow, a presentation of which chiropractors should be aware, including the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A 9-year-old elite gymnast presented at a chiropractic clinic with elbow pain and restricted range of motion after a fall during training. Following multidisciplinary involvement, the diagnosis was eventually made as osteochondritis dissecans.

The patient underwent successful arthroscopic surgery in order to remove the osteochondral fragment, followed by a specific regimen of rehabilitation exercises, which helped to enhance and accelerate optimal healing for her return to athletic activity.

This case reminds the practicing chiropractor of the valuable role he/she can play in a multidisciplinary management of pediatric sports trauma, particularly in diagnosis and post-surgical care. A literature review presents a synopsis of the reported clinical presentations, diagnostic assessment and therapeutic options for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans.