A review of upper extremity peripheral nerve injuries in throwing athletes

• Published in: PM & R 2022-05, Vol.14 (5), p.652-668
• Main Authors: Bowers, Robert L., Cherian, Chris, Zaremski, Jason L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Arm Injuries; Athletes; Athletic Injuries - rehabilitation; Athletic Injuries - therapy; Humans; Peripheral Nerve Injuries - diagnosis; Peripheral Nerve Injuries - etiology; Peripheral Nerve Injuries - therapy; Upper Extremity - injuries
• ISSN: 1934-1482; 1934-1563
• DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12762

Peripheral nerve injuries in the upper extremities may be common in throwing athletes as the throwing motion places extreme stress on the dominant arm. The combination of extreme stress along with repetitive microtrauma from throwing uniquely places the throwing athlete at elevated risk of upper extremity peripheral nerve injury. However, because symptoms can be nonspecific and frequently coexist with pathology in the upper extremity, the diagnosis of peripheral nerve injury is often delayed. Diagnosis of peripheral nerve injuries may require a combination of history and physical examination, diagnostic imaging, electrodiagnostic testing, and diagnostic ultrasound‐guided injections. The primary management should include physical therapy focusing on throwing mechanics and kinetic chain evaluation. However, some athletes require surgical intervention if symptoms do not improve with conservative management. The purpose of this focused narrative review is to highlight upper extremity peripheral neuropathies reported in throwing athletes and to provide an overview of the appropriate clinical diagnosis and management of the throwing athlete with a peripheral nerve injury.