Sports health
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Oculomotor impairments, dizziness, and imbalance are common after sports-related concussion (SRC) in adolescents and suggest a relationship between SRC and vestibular system dysfunction. However, it is not clear whether the source of these problems is attributable to the peripheral or central vestibular system. ⋯ We do not recommend the assessment of head impulse function in adolescents with SRC unless more definitive signs of peripheral vestibular injury are present. We recommend using the VOMS to assess symptoms of suspected SRC injury in adolescents.
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Few studies have examined white matter with diffusion tensor imaging in 8- to 12-year-old collision sport (CS) athletes. ⋯ These data can be used within the body of knowledge to counsel patients regarding the known risks of youth tackle football regarding brain health.
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Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in young athletes during sports. ⋯ Public access defibrillator programs should be universal in schools and youth sporting venues and have the potential to increase survival after SCA in young athletes.
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Knee osteoarthritis affects 9.3 million adults over age 45 years in the United States. There is significant disability associated with this condition. Given the potential complications and the significant cost to the health care system with the dramatic increase in total knee arthroplasties performed for this condition, assessment of the efficacy of nonoperative modalities, such as offloading knee braces, is essential as part of optimizing nonoperative treatment for this condition. ⋯ Valgus offloader bracing is an effective treatment for improving pain secondary to medial compartment knee osteoarthritis. The literature remains unclear on the effectiveness of valgus offloader braces with regard to functional outcomes and stiffness. Larger prospective randomized trials with consistent outcome assessment tools and consideration of patient compliance would be beneficial to more accurately determine treatment effects of valgus offloader bracing.
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Return to play (RTP) of National Football League (NFL) athletes after isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears has been reported. However, no studies have reported on RTP of NFL athletes after multiligament knee injuries. ⋯ Multiligament knee injuries significantly affect the ability of a football player to return to sport. ACL and MCL tears are associated with better RTP prognosis compared with ACL and PCL/LCL tears.