Mechanics, Pathomechanics and Injury in the Overhead Athlete

Book excerpt: As clinical interest in overhead athletic injuries is on the upswing, so is greater interest in the factors for performance and injury risk in throwing and other overhead motion. This practical, case-based text is divided into two sections and will present the basic principles of overhead athletes followed by unique clinical case presentations describing different aspects of performance, injury and management in throwing and other overhead athletes. Part I discusses the mechanics and pathomechanics of the overhead motion, along with principles of evaluation, the physical exam, surgical management of both the shoulder and elbow, rehabilitation and return to play, injury risk modification, and the role of the scapula. Unique clinical cases comprise all of part II and follow a consistent format covering the history, exam, imaging, diagnosis and outcome of the chosen intervention. These cases illustrate a cross-section of sports and activities, from the baseball player to the swimmer, and a range of shoulder and elbow problems in pediatric and adult overhead athletes Providing a unique case-based approach to a growing hot topic, Mechanics, Pathomechanics and Injury in the Overhead Athlete is an ideal resource for orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine specialists, physiatrists, physical therapists, certified athletic trainers and allied medical professions treating active persons of all ages.