Diagnosis and Treatment of Distal Biceps and Anterior Elbow Pain in Throwing Athletes

Background: Elbow injuries are common among throwing athletes, particularly in sports like baseball and softball. While distal biceps tendon injuries in throwing athletes are relatively rare, anterior elbow pain can often be mistakenly diagnosed as distal biceps tendon pathology. The high forces and rotational speeds experienced during throwing movements place significant stress on the elbow joint, making it susceptible to various types of injuries. Understanding the biomechanics of throwing and the differential diagnosis of anterior elbow pain is crucial for the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of these athletes. This study focuses on diagnosing and treating biceps and anterior elbow pain in throwing athletes. Methods: The current study employs a cross-sectional design that includes clinical evaluation and kinematic analysis of throwing athletes. It reviews existing literature from ۲۰۰۱ to ۲۰۲۳. Data were collected through structured interviews, physical examinations, and imaging techniques, including MRI and ultrasound. Additionally, demographic data and athletic histories of the athletes were also collected and analyzed. Finally, treatment methods, including physical therapy, injection therapies, and surgical options, were examined, and the treatment outcomes were assessed based on symptom improvement and increased athletic performance. Results: In this study, a total of ۵۰ throwing athletes who visited the clinic due to pain in the elbow and biceps region were evaluated. The average age of the athletes was ۲۵ years, and ۷۰% were male. The results showed that ۶۰% of patients exhibited symptoms related to biceps tendonitis, while ۴۰% suffered injuries related to the elbow. In imaging evaluations, ۳۵% of patients showed tissue changes and soft tissue injuries. Treatments involving physical therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs led to an average of ۷۰% pain reduction and performance improvement. In cases where non-surgical treatments were ineffective, ۱۵% of patients required surgery, which also indicated significant improvements in quality of life and athletic performance. Conclusion: Diagnosing and treating biceps and anterior elbow pain in throwing athletes requires a comprehensive and multidimensional assessment. Utilizing non-surgical methods as the first line of treatment can help improve symptoms and performance. In more advanced cases, surgery may also be an effective option. However, accurately identifying the underlying cause of pain is vital and should be approached with a patient-centered strategy in treating athletes. This study particularly emphasizes that combining various treatment methods increases the likelihood of successfully improving athletes' quality of life.

کلیدواژه ها:

Throwing athletes ، elbow injuries ، distal biceps tendon ، anterior elbow pain ، ulnar collateral ligament ، valgus extension overload syndrome