Throwing injuries of the shoulder

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• The mechanism of throwing is complex, involving distinct kinetic phases.
• Clinical signs of throwing-related injuries may manifest only after repetitive activity.
• The interplay between shoulder instability and impingement is a key pathological concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanism of throwing, detailing its different phases.
• To discuss the pathological relationship between instability and impingement in throwing athletes.
• To highlight the role of arthroscopy in understanding and managing throwing-related injuries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the biomechanics of throwing.
• Discussion of clinical presentation and historical importance in diagnosis.
• Analysis of the role of arthroscopy in pathological anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment.

Main Results:

• Throwing mechanics can be segmented into distinct phases.
• Patient history is often more revealing than immediate clinical signs for repetitive throwing injuries.
• Arthroscopy significantly advances the understanding of pathological anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of throwing phases is essential for diagnosing associated pathologies.
• Early diagnosis and treatment of shoulder instability and impingement are critical.
• Arthroscopy is an invaluable tool for elucidating the complex anatomy and guiding interventions in throwing athletes.