Degenerative conditions of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine are encountered at all levels of medical referral. Because of their prevalence, all practitioners, from primary care providers to spine specialists, should possess a basic understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis,…
Trauma to the thoracolumbar spine in athletes is common and can vary from minor sprain to major spinal fracture. Severe and potentially unstable spinal injuries are uncommon in sports-related trauma, but may be seen in athletes participating in contact sports…
This chapter provides an evidence-based approach to history and physical examination, initial stabilization and triage, diagnosis and imaging, treatment, and outcomes for cervical spine injuries in athletes. Cervical spine injury ranges from neuropraxias, to herniated discs, to complete spinal cord…
Introduction The terms “ stinger ” and “ burner ” are synonymous, and together represent a range of brachial nerve plexopathies. Initially described by Chrisman et al., stingers are almost invariably trauma-mediated, unilateral, reversible injuries of the upper extremity. While stingers…
Among the wide range of injuries that occur in the sports arena, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a health problem that has garnered increasing public awareness during recent years. This heightened interest has been largely driven by intense media exposure,…
Spine injuries in athletic events are uncommon, representing only 9% of the total spine injuries presenting to trauma centers. Spine injuries are potentially catastrophic events for the participants; these injuries can lead to significant morbidity and can alter a life…
Along with a comprehensive history and physical examination, imaging is essential for the evaluation of the patient who presents with suspected or known spine pathology. It facilitates preoperative assessment of a patient, generation of a differential diagnosis, selection of the…
Head Anatomy and Biomechanics Head injuries have multiple mechanisms, which include the injuries from an impact of the brain against the inside of the skull ( Fig. 123.1 ). A coup injury occurs when the brain strikes the inner skull…
Introduction The complexity of the central nervous system (CNS) as well as the bones and soft tissues that provide its protection present special challenges when treating the injured athlete. A thorough understanding of the normal anatomy and biomechanics of the…
Great caution must be exercised in dealing with forefoot problems, particularly in athletes. Although the outcomes are the same as in nonathletes, even a small decrease in performance may prove to be very significant for an athlete. Therefore with certain…