Best Practice Case Studies-Study Questions (SHOULDER PAIN AFTER A TACKLE: A CAN’T MISS DIAGNOSIS)

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This document is a case study focusing on sternoclavicular joint injuries, particularly among young athletes involved in high-impact sports such as football. It presents several scenarios and study questions, providing detailed insights into the management of these injuries.

<strong>Case Summary:</strong>
A 17-year-old male football player reported right shoulder pain after being tackled and landing on his shoulder. Initial x-rays showed no abnormalities, but significant pain and swelling at the sternoclavicular joint prompted further evaluation. A CT scan was recommended to properly assess potential dislocation, especially posterior dislocation, which can pose significant medical risks due to its proximity to vital structures like the airway and blood vessels.

<strong>Key Findings:</strong>
1. <strong>Imaging</strong>: A CT scan is the recommended diagnostic tool for sternoclavicular joint issues due to its ability to differentiate between anterior and posterior dislocations.
2. <strong>Symptoms and Nerve Involvement</strong>: Hoarseness or a change in voice suggests potential recurrent laryngeal nerve involvement, indicating a serious condition often associated with posterior dislocations.
3. <strong>Medical Emergency Indicators</strong>: An absent pulse in the upper extremity indicates a medical emergency in cases of sternoclavicular joint dislocation, requiring immediate attention.

<strong>Additional Case Discussions:</strong>
- An 18-year-old football player presents with similar symptoms and develops hoarseness due to potential nerve injury, specifically affecting the recurrent laryngeal nerve.
- For a 19-year-old male with a dislocated sternoclavicular joint after a sports impact, the presence of an absent pulse indicates the need for urgent medical treatment.
- In a martial arts injury scenario, symptoms like throat tightness and difficulty swallowing following a chest impact suggest a posterior dislocation, emphasizing the importance of recognizing compressive symptoms.

The document emphasizes the critical nature of accurately diagnosing and treating sternoclavicular joint dislocations due to their potential to cause life-threatening complications.

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Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 10

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Keywords

sternoclavicular joint

injuries

young athletes

football

CT scan

posterior dislocation

recurrent laryngeal nerve

medical emergency

absent pulse

diagnosis

3rd Edition

3rd Edition, CASE 10

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