Armpje drukken: aanval de beste verdediging?

Abstract

Fractures of the humeral shaft are relatively rare and account for 1 to 2% of all fractures. These fractures occur at any age, but the incidence increases from the fifth decade.Midshaft fractures typically result from trauma such as a direct blow or bending force to the humerus and, less commonly, from a fall on an outstretched hand or elbow. Midshaft fractures may also result from strong muscle contractions such as in rowing, spear throwing and baseball pitching.Arm wrestling has become a popular sport practiced by both professionals and amateurs. The most illustrious injuries are those of the humeral shaft fracture, fracture-separation of the medial humeral epicondyle in teenagers, a fracture of the olceranon, subscapularis and proximal biceps tendon rupture and an anterior dislocation of the elbow. Among these, the most frequent is the humeral shaft fracture.The most common complications associated with humeral shaft fractures from arm wrestling are neurovascular compromise. This occurs in 10 to 23% of mid-shaft fractures. Regarding treatment, a functional brace is indicated in minimally displaced humeral shaft fractures. An operation is performed by open reduction and internal fixation or with use of an intramedullary nail. We report on three cases with spiral fractures of the distal humerus from arm wrestling. The aim of this case report was to discuss the biomechanical analysis of the forces which act during arm wrestling as well as to explain the mechanism of the injury and match tactics: Is attack the best form of defence?