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Helmet Tap To Hand Trap: An Uncommon Football Injury - Page #1
 

Author: Bret Andrew, MD
Senior Editor: Christian Fulmer, DO, FAMSSM
Editor: Caitlin Lewis, MD

Patient Presentation:
A 17 year old male presents to the sideline endorsing right antecubital pain.

History:
A 17-year-old male was struck in the right antecubital fossa by another player’s helmet during a high school football game. Initially, he reported mild discomfort and has full, pain-free elbow and forearm motion. No tenderness or ligamentous laxity was noted on exam. Over the next 30 minutes, he developed increasing swelling and pain with passive and active movement. His discomfort rapidly escalated, which prompted re-evaluation. He was referred to the emergency department for further assessment.

Physical Exam:
In the emergency department, the patient demonstrated tense swelling of the antecubital and proximal forearm region. Case Photo #1 Pain was elicited with passive stretch of the wrist and fingers. Hand sensation was diminished, and he exhibited weakness in wrist and finger extension consistent with radial and median nerve involvement. Capillary refill was normal, and radial and ulnar pulses were 2+.

Click here to continue. Challenge yourself by writing down a broad differential diagnosis before moving to the next slide.

NOTE: For more information, please contact the AMSSM, 4000 W. 114th Street, Suite 100, Leawood, KS 66211 (913) 327-1415.
 

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