Contusions and the Formation of Myositis Ossificans.

In brief: Myositis ossificans-a benign process-is characterized by calcification of a hematoma that resulted from a severe contusion or strain or repeated trauma. Diagnosis is based on radiographic evidence of a calcified mass along with a history of recent trauma to the affected area. Management should be directed at minimizing or preventing extension of the original injury. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the classic treatment for any soft-tissue injury) is recommended as initial therapy. Gentle, painless range-of-motion exercises may be prescribed to help restore mobility. Padding can be used to protect the affected area from additional trauma.

Groin Strain and Other Possible Causes of Groin Pain.

In brief: Groin strains (and injuries assumed to be groin strains) have been treated with a simple, straightforward approach. However, complications too often arise from inadequate diagnosis or improper management of these injuries. A pelvic stress fracture, an avulsion injury, and even a tumor can be confused with a groin strain. This article discusses the importance of differential diagnosis, which can help prevent serious complications. The authors also present a case report of a football player who was diagnosed with myositis following a groin strain he had sustained a year earlier.

Levator Scapulae Syndrome.

In brief: The records of 66 patients who had been treated for levator scapulae syndrome were reviewed; these patients then completed a retrospective questionnaire. The purpose was to determine how many had previously been treated for shoulder and neck pain, the treatment administered, and the causes of the problem. Levator scapulae syndrome occurs frequently and is well documented, yet it often goes unrecognized, probably because of a lack of awareness of the condition. Diagnosis can be facilitated by positioning the patient so that the scapula is elevated, thus making the levator scapulae muscle insertion protrude. Effective treatment includes physical therapy and/or injection of an analgesic. However, like other forms of tendinitis, recurrence is likely.

Wrestling Injuries in North Carolina High Schools.

In brief: Using data on 1,091 North Carolina high school wrestlers during 49 team-seasons, the authors attempted to relate the number, type, and severity of wrestling injuries to factors such as mat surfaces, endurance exercises, weight- reducing methods, protective equipment, and coaching experience. Most of the 248 injuries were minor, causing little time loss, but 57 (23%) were so severe that athletes missed an entire season. Possible contributory factors were inappropriate endurance training shoes, infrequent headgear use during practice, less than optimum wrestler-to-coach ratios, and potentially dangerous weight-reduction methods.