Upper trunk brachial plexopathy in football players

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• The brachial plexus is a network of nerves controlling the shoulder and arm.
• Injuries to the brachial plexus can result in significant upper limb dysfunction.
• Athletes, particularly in contact sports, are susceptible to nerve injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical and electrodiagnostic findings in football players with brachial plexus injuries.
• To identify the mechanism of injury and associated symptoms.
• To determine the relationship between head/shoulder trauma and brachial plexus stretching.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of ten football players treated between 1973-1977.
• Clinical examination for upper limb paresis.
• Electrodiagnostic studies to assess nerve function.
• Analysis of injury history, including blows to the head or shoulders.

Main Results:

• All ten players showed evidence of upper trunk brachial plexus injury.
• Upper limb paresis was a consistent finding.
• Burning paresthesias often preceded the development of persistent weakness.
• Injuries were associated with direct blows to the head or shoulders.

Conclusions:

• Stretching of the brachial plexus is a frequent cause of burning paresthesias and subsequent arm weakness in athletes.
• Football players are at risk for these specific nerve injuries.
• Prompt diagnosis and understanding of the mechanism are crucial for management.