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Elbow injuries in athletes. A review
1University of Pittsburgh, Center for Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, PA, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Elbow injuries from sports overuse are rising. This paper reviews elbow anatomy, biomechanics, and treatment strategies for athletes to prevent and manage these common, chronic injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Elbow injuries are increasingly prevalent in athletes participating in throwing and racquet sports.
- Most athletic elbow injuries are chronic, resulting from repetitive overload causing soft tissue microrupture.
- Immature athletes are susceptible to stress injuries, particularly at the apophyses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the significance of elbow injuries in athletic populations.
- To review the relevant anatomy and biomechanics of the elbow joint.
- To discuss effective prevention and treatment strategies for athletic elbow injuries.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on athletic elbow injuries.
- Analysis of injury mechanisms, including valgus stress and axial compression.
- Examination of diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- Repetitive valgus stress commonly leads to medial elbow overload.
- Potential injuries include ulnar collateral ligament damage, flexor-pronator strains, osteochondritis dissecans, and ulnar neuritis.
- Associated conditions can involve chondromalacia and loose bodies.
Conclusions:
- Understanding elbow anatomy and biomechanics is crucial for injury prevention.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management are key to treating overuse elbow injuries in athletes.
- A comprehensive approach involving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment is necessary for athletic elbow health.