Long-term roentgenologic studies in peak performance javelin throwers

Abstract

The example of the javelin thrower demonstrates that an unphysiological movement sequence at the elbow joint (valgus stress) leads to regular arthrotic alterations by summation of such strains: these are known as "javelin elbow". Since the new javelin introduced in 1986 requires a greater explosive force, a tendency to an increased incidence of these alterations must be reckoned with in the future. Further observations are necessary to clarify whether there will be an increase in degenerative alterations in the lumbar spine by abrupt hyperlordosis and trunk rotation in producing the bow tension of the javelin thrower; whether the above-average incidence of patients with spondylolysis amongst competitive javelin throwers is coincidental; whether the processes of remodelling in the interarticular portion of javelin throwers constitute zones of fatigue; and, finally, whether the unilateral trunk strain of the javelin thrower influences the scoliotic posture.