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Updated: Jul 16, 2025

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An Objective and Child-friendly Assessment of Arm Function by Using a 3-D Sensor
Published on: February 12, 2018
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Young Adolescent With Restricted Arm Motion During a Preparticipation Physical Exam.
Audrey A Potts1, Madison L McLachlan1, Rebecca J Stoll1
1Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
Journal of Primary Care & Community Health
|September 15, 2023
Summary
A routine sports physical revealed a shoulder abnormality in a football player, leading to surgery. This case emphasizes asking about all past injuries, not just sports-related ones, during evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Preparticipation examinations (PPE) are crucial for identifying potential health risks in athletes.
- Routine evaluations can uncover asymptomatic conditions requiring further investigation.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old football player presented for a PPE with reduced right shoulder range of motion.
- The patient reported no pain or recent injury but a remote, non-sports-related incident.
Findings:
- Initial X-rays suggested an osteochondroma, but advanced imaging revealed heterotopic ossification.
- The condition necessitated a complex, multidisciplinary surgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive injury history questioning during PPE.
- Thorough evaluation is vital for ensuring athlete safety and preventing unexpected surgical interventions.

