Nerve Entrapment Syndromes in Athletes

Sports-related injuries most commonly involve the musculoskeletal system. However, physicians are less familiar with damage to the peripheral nerves attributable to particular sports activities. Nerve entrapment syndromes associated with physical activity may affect all nerves for which entrapment syndromes are known. Peripheral nerve lesions are serious and may delay or preclude the athletes' return to sports, especially in cases with a delayed diagnosis. The aim of the paper is to give an overview of chronic sports-related nerve lesions. Acute nerve injuries are not the focus of this review. A literature search regarding sports-related nerve lesions was conducted. Due to the lack of prospective epidemiological studies, case reports were included (evidence level 4). Nerve entrapment syndromes specific for particular sports activities are described including clinical presentation, diagnostic workup and treatment. Repetitive and vigorous use or overuse makes the athlete vulnerable to disorders of the peripheral nerves, additionally sports equipment may cause compression of the nerves. The treatment is primarily conservative and includes modification of movements and sports equipment, shoe inserts, splinting, antiphlogistic drugs and local administration of glucocorticoids. Most often cessation of the off ending physical activity is necessary. When symptoms are refractory to conservative therapy a referral to surgery is indicated. The outcome of surgical treatment regarding the return of the athlete to competitive sports is not sufficiently investigated in many nerve entrapment syndromes.