Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

Doctors Get the Elbow from Gymnasts

Posted on: 11/30/1999
Intense training activities that repeatedly put pressure on the elbow joint can lead to joint damage. The result can be a condition called osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Five female athletes, four of whom were gymnasts, presented with elbow OCD.

OCD in the elbow usually occurs in the outside edge of the elbow joint, where the rounded end of the upper arm bone (humerus) attaches to the radial bone of the forearm. The cartilage can become separated from the bone, which causes pain, swelling, and loss of motion.

Most athletes with OCD report a "locking" sensation. The elbow gets stuck in one position and can't move. A similar condition in younger athletes (under age 12) can usually be successfully treated with rest.

However, elbow OCD from repeated trauma usually requires surgery. Even with rest, each of the athletes in this study eventually needed surgery. Removing any loose tissue from the elbow and smoothing the joint surface restores motion. Several of these athletes returned to their sport without pain.

OCD of the elbow has only a small chance of healing on its own. Delay in surgery can lead to more damage and a worse result in the end.

References:
Matthijs R. Krijnen, MD, et al. Case Report. Arthroscopic Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum: Report of 5 Female Athletes. In Arthroscopy. February 2003. Vol. 19. No. 2. Pp. 210-214.

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.