Clavicular stress fracture in a cricket fast bowler: A case report

Jeremy Af Read,Phillip Bell

doi:10.1186/1752-1947-2-306

Jeremy Af Read, Phillip Bell

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/1752-1947-2-306

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Abstract

IntroductionWhilst rare, stress fractures of the clavicle have been described in other sports. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a stress fracture of the clavicle occurring in a cricket fast bowler.Case presentationA 23-year-old professional cricket fast bowler presented with activity related shoulder pain. Imaging demonstrated a stress fracture of the lateral third of the clavicle. This healed with rest and rehabilitation allowing a full return to professional sport.ConclusionThis injury is treated with activity modification and technique adaptation. In a professional sportsman, this needs to be recognised early so that return to play can be as quick as possible.

Highlights

Whilst rare, stress fractures of the clavicle have been described in other sports
A 23-year-old professional right-handed fast bowler presented with a 4-month history of presumptive bowling related right shoulder and upper anterior chest pain that was eased by rest
A single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan demonstrated a focus of increased uptake in the lateral third of the clavicle (Fig. 1) and a CT scan (Fig. 2) that revealed sclerosis and a lucent line with associated sclerosis confirmed a stress fracture

Summary

Introduction

This case presents an international level cricketer who developed an activity related shoulder pain which, after investigation, was demonstrated to be a stress fracture of the lateral clavicle. A single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan demonstrated a focus of increased uptake in the lateral third of the clavicle (Fig. 1) and a CT scan (Fig. 2) that revealed sclerosis and a lucent line with associated sclerosis confirmed a stress fracture. A single photon emission computed tomography scan showing increased uptake in the lateral clavicle consistent with the site of pain He was rested from bowling and upper body weight training and rehabilitated with emphasis on scapular stability and rotator cuff strengthening until there was no residual local bony tenderness and he was asymptomatic with press-ups. He returned to professional cricket without recurrence

Discussion

Conclusion

Findings

Bell PA

Waninger KN