Best Practice Case Studies-Athletic Injuries to the Hand and Wrist Part 2 , Rettig

Athletic Injuries to the Hand and Wrist Part 2 , Rettig

Pdf Summary

The document is an article from "The American Journal of Sports Medicine" detailing wrist and hand injuries in athletes, specifically focusing on overuse and traumatic injuries. Overuse syndromes, such as de Quervain's syndrome, intersection syndrome, and ECU tendinitis, are highlighted as common among athletes participating in racquet sports, rowing, and gymnastics. The article explains that these conditions often result from repetitive microtrauma and details the pathophysiology, common symptoms, diagnostic tests like Finkelstein’s test for de Quervain’s syndrome, and treatment options, which may range from rest and immobilization to corticosteroid injections and surgical interventions.<br /><br />The second half of the document transitions to traumatic hand injuries, frequently encountered in sports due to falls, axial loads, or rotational trauma. This includes fractures of the metacarpals and phalanges, joint injuries, and tendon ruptures. Specific injuries like the PIP joint dislocations, Bennett’s fracture, and mallet finger are discussed extensively, covering their mechanisms, clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, and optimal treatments. Surgical options and considerations for chronic issues, such as volar plate injuries and boutonniere deformities, are also mentioned. The article underscores the importance of timely and accurate diagnosis to prevent long-term dysfunction and to facilitate prompt return to athletic activity.<br /><br />Overall, the document emphasizes the prevalence of wrist and hand injuries in sports, the complexities of their diagnosis and treatment, and the need for individualized management strategies to optimize outcomes and ensure athletes' swift return to sport.

Keywords

wrist injuries

hand injuries

athletes

overuse syndromes

traumatic injuries

diagnostic tests

treatment options

sports medicine

fractures

tendon ruptures