Context: The use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly becoming a standard of care for sports medicine and orthopedic physicians. As such, there will be increased demand for athletic trainers to have knowledge and skills in diagnostic ultrasound. Objective: To provide key considerations for integration of diagnostic ultrasound into…

Sports medicine, as a discipline, can be traced back to primitive man. The use of exercise as a prerequisite for conditioning and proper treatment of injuries was first documented in early Greek civilization with the establishment of the Olympics. Today, sports by their very nature invite injury. In 2000, 2.5 million students participated in…

Discusses the development of osteoarthritis and whether running and other impact loading sports promote it. Although these sports do not cause arthritis in normal weight bearing limbs, they can accelerate it in damaged joints. It is important to identify people with preeexisting joint disease so they can choose nonimpact-loading aerobic exercise.…

The article looks at risks and benefits of horseback riding. Several risks can be minimized if riders take lessons, check riding equipment before each ride, wear proper headgear and footgear, and respect the horse's size and will. Medical guidelines for equestrian sports could help reduce injuries. (SM)

Recreational watercraft paddlers are susceptible to problems ranging from simple contusions and blisters to drowning. Most of these problems can be prevented by simple precautions, such as proper technique, good warmup, carrying first-aid kits, wearing personal flotation devices, and respecting the environment. (Author/SM)

Discusses chronic fatigue syndrome as it affects elite athletes, noting that overtraining may mimic it. In some cases, athletes who have it perform exceedingly well in the face of debilitating fatigue. Among athletes and nonathletes, the cause and the mind-body connection are areas of controversy and research. (Author/SM)

Examines whether prepubescents are trainable in competitive sports, noting trainability differences between prepubescents and older groups. Changes in maximal aerobic power, metabolic cost of walking and running, muscle strength and power, and local muscle endurance are examined. Strength training is recommended only for rehabilitation or…

Cites statistics on death and injury from high school sports. Offers advice to coaches and athletic directors about safety consciousness, how to assess sports safety programs, and the advantages of employing certified athletic trainers. (MLF)

Little league elbow is a common overuse injury resulting from repetitive valgus stress on the elbow during overhead throwing. Prevention and treatment should emphasize education of athletes, parents, and coaches about its etiology. The paper examines bone development, noting that the condition is highly treatable if diagnosed in early development.…

Coaches, regardless of their level, should be certified in basic first aid, CPR, and the use of automated external defibrillators. They need to be trained regarding liability and those laws that apply to the field of coaching. There is a certification known as "First Responder," whereby the trainee earns a level of expertise just below that of a…

Presents a case report of a 15-year-old boy with severe hemophilia who played soccer 1 school year but was denied continued participation following another screening examination. Before deciding about participation, physicians must assess the type and severity of hemophilia and risk factors for injury. Appropriate sports for hemophiliacs are…

The Delphine Hanna lecture is a memorial to the contributions and vision of a great leader. It is a tribute time-out, a moment in time when we stop what we are doing to look back thankfully and to commemorate her life. It is also an opportune moment to consider what we have made of her legacy today and to look forward to the world that awaits…

This article discusses the dramatic injury incidence in high school athletics, the lack of medical support for these injuries, and coaches' lack of knowledge and preparation regarding these injuries. It then considers implications of this situation for the coaching profession and for physical education programs that prepare coaches. (IAH)

Acceptance of adult roles by children increases "adult injuries," notably broken bones from sports. Suggests camp administrators be familiar with clientele, particular sports, and the kinds of injuries that generally result in each. Discusses children's age, types of sports, and other factors that come into play when anticipating and treating…

Because team physicians generally establish athletes' medical eligibility requirements, they must understand the legal implications of recommending against sports participation. The paper presents recent court cases reflecting a split decision regarding the legality of excluding athletes whose conditions, in the physicians' opinions, expose them…