Distal Radius Fracture in Athletes

Abstract

Sports-related distal radius fractures (SRDRF) represent 12.5% of all fractures affecting the upper extremity. This type of fracture occurs more frequently in males (76%) than in females (24%), with an average age of presentation of 24.5 years. In the pediatric population, the peak incidence for sports injuries is between 11 and 17 years. High-impact sports, such as football, basketball, and soccer carry an especially high risk for this type of injury. However, because of the wide variety of sport disciplines and different characteristics in demand, velocity, energy, and use of the upper extremities, there is no uniform pattern of SRDRF. The general principles for diagnosis and treatment of distal radius fractures in athletes, for the most part, follow those of the general population. However, unique aspects of the clinical approach to SRDRF in the athlete frequently require additional radiographic views and the common need for advanced imaging such as computer tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging. Athletes constitute a special patient population. Elite athletes are highly motivated to return to competition as soon as possible, frequently being willing to accept the risk of poor healing or repeat injury The treating physician may be subjected to pressure to prematurely end immobilization, reduce recovery time, and even remove plates or alter therapy based on competition requirements. These influences should be mitigated in favor of the long-term benefit for the patient.