{ "schemaVersion": 1, "language": "en", "title": "Sports Medicine Dictionary", "terms": [ { "slug": "anterior-cruciate-ligament", "englishName": "Anterior cruciate ligament", "abbreviation": "ACL", "category": "anatomy", "categoryLabel": "Anatomy", "name": "Anterior Cruciate Ligament", "aliases": [ "Anterior Cruciate Ligament", "ACL", "Knee ACL" ], "definition": "The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial fibrous band in the center of the knee joint connecting the femur to the tibia, functioning primarily to restrain anterior tibial translation and control rotational stability.", "clinical": "ACL rupture is among the most frequent disabling sports injuries. It causes acute hemarthrosis and subjective knee instability. Clinical management is tailored to individual functional demands, joint laxity, and concomitant meniscal or chondral pathology, ranging from structured neuromuscular rehabilitation to arthroscopic anatomical reconstruction.", "clarification": "Being able to walk does not rule out a complete ACL rupture. Patients frequently walk without severe pain in straight lines, yet suffer marked giving-way episodes during pivoting or cutting maneuvers; surgical decisions are based on dynamic joint stability and protection against secondary meniscus/cartilage degeneration rather than walking ability alone.", "symptoms": [ "A distinct popping sensation or audible sound at the precise moment of injury", "Rapid onset of tense joint swelling and hemarthrosis within 1 to 4 hours post-injury", "Sudden 'giving-way', buckling, or instability when turning, pivoting, or descending stairs", "Significant restriction in terminal knee extension and full flexion accompanied by weight-bearing pain" ], "causes": [ "Non-contact rapid deceleration, sudden directional cuts, or twisting pivoting maneuvers (>70% of cases)", "Faulty jump landing mechanics with dynamic knee valgus and a fixed foot", "Direct hyperextension forces or high-energy lateral impact to the knee" ], "diagnostics": [ "Physical Examination: Lachman test (most sensitive for anterior translation), Anterior Drawer test, and Pivot-Shift test", "High-Field 3.0T Knee MRI: Diagnostic gold standard to confirm tear grade, location, and associated multiligament/meniscal damage", "Plain Radiography: Excludes tibial spine avulsion fractures or Segond avulsion fractures" ], "treatments": [ "Base treatment on instability, associated injury and activity goals. Structured rehabilitation may suit a functionally stable knee; recurrent instability or high-demand sport may favor reconstruction. Age alone does not decide treatment." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "After ACL reconstruction, restore swelling control, extension and quadriceps function. Associated repairs alter loading and bracing. Running and pivoting require clinical and functional assessment; sport clearance also considers graft healing, psychological readiness and sport demands, beyond LSI alone." } ], "redFlags": [ "Tense, rapid swelling with severe resting pain and high joint capsule pressure (indicates tense hemarthrosis)", "True mechanical locking where the knee cannot be straightened (indicates trapped bucket-handle meniscus tear)", "Lower leg paleness, cold extremity, numbness, or diminished dorsalis pedis pulse (demands urgent neurovascular assessment)" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-04", "sources": [ { "title": "Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/anterior-cruciate-ligament-acl-injuries/" }, { "title": "ACL Tear: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16576-acl-tear" }, { "title": "Aspetar clinical practice guideline on rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction", "organization": "British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM)", "url": "https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/9/500" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/anterior-cruciate-ligament/", "relatedTerms": [ "meniscus", "proprioception", "arthroscopy", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "acl-need-surgery", "acl-can-walk", "acl-pop-sound", "acl-rapid-swelling", "acl-return-to-contact-sport" ] }, { "slug": "meniscus", "englishName": "Meniscus", "category": "anatomy", "categoryLabel": "Anatomy", "name": "Meniscus", "aliases": [ "Meniscus", "Medial Meniscus", "Lateral Meniscus", "Knee Cartilage Pad" ], "definition": "The meniscus is a specialized crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous structure situated between the femoral condyle and tibial plateau in the knee (comprising the medial and lateral meniscus), acting as a vital shock absorber, load distributor, joint lubricator, and secondary stabilizer.", "clinical": "Meniscal tears present as either acute traumatic injuries in young athletes or degenerative cleavages in older adults. Clinical management depends on tear morphology (bucket-handle, radial, horizontal, flap, root tears), vascular zones (red-red, red-white, white-white), and mechanical symptoms. Modern joint-preservation philosophy prioritizes arthroscopic repair over resection to prevent long-term cartilage wear.", "clarification": "The meniscus is fibrocartilage and distinct from hyaline articular cartilage covering bone ends; an MRI finding of 'meniscal signal or degenerative tear' does not automatically mandate surgery. Asymptomatic degenerative tears in middle-aged adults are primarily managed with structured conservative exercise; acute locked tears in young patients warrant early arthroscopic repair.", "symptoms": [ "Well-localized joint line tenderness and sharp pain upon knee rotation", "Sudden mechanical clicking, catching, or true 'locking' (inability to fully extend or flex)", "Intermittent or recurrent joint effusion and swelling following athletic exertion or prolonged walking", "Knee giving-way, instability, or subjective weakness during deep squats, pivoting, or stair climbing" ], "causes": [ "Acute athletic trauma: Forceful twisting or pivoting on a loaded, flexed knee (frequently co-occurring with ACL injury)", "Degenerative attrition: Progressive age-related loss of fibrocartilage hydration and collagen elasticity causing tears during routine squatting", "Congenital discoid meniscus: An abnormally thick, disc-shaped lateral meniscus that is intrinsically fragile and prone to tearing" ], "diagnostics": [ "History, joint-line tenderness and clinical tests guide assessment. MRI characterizes tears and associated injury; X-rays assess bone or arthritis. Alignment films are selective, and 3.0T MRI is not universally required." ], "treatments": [ "Tiered Conservative Care: Initial management for stable degenerative tears without mechanical block, combining load modification, NSAIDs, and targeted kinetic chain strengthening", "Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair: Gold standard for vascularized red-red/red-white zone tears (especially bucket-handle and root tears) using all-inside, inside-out, or root re-fixation techniques", "Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy: Reserved strictly for irreparable, macerated white-white zone tears to re-establish a smooth, stable contour while preserving maximum tissue" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Meniscal repair, root repair and partial meniscectomy have different weight-bearing and flexion restrictions. Protect the repair, restore gait and strength, then progress impact and pivoting after healing and functional assessment." } ], "redFlags": [ "A truly locked knee needs prompt assessment; do not force it straight. A specialist determines whether surgery is needed. A hot swollen knee, fever or inability to bear weight also needs assessment." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-04", "sources": [ { "title": "Meniscus Tears: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/meniscus-tears/" }, { "title": "Torn Meniscus: Clinical Presentation and Management", "organization": "Mayo Clinic", "url": "https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/torn-meniscus/symptoms-causes/syc-20354818" }, { "title": "Surgical Repair vs. Meniscectomy for Meniscal Tears: Clinical Guidelines", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17219-torn-meniscus" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/meniscus/", "relatedTerms": [ "articular-cartilage", "anterior-cruciate-ligament", "arthroscopy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "meniscus-repair-vs-meniscectomy", "asymptomatic-meniscus-mri", "meniscus-need-surgery", "locked-knee-meniscus" ] }, { "slug": "rotator-cuff", "englishName": "Rotator cuff", "category": "anatomy", "categoryLabel": "Anatomy", "name": "Rotator Cuff", "aliases": [ "Rotator Cuff", "Shoulder Cuff", "Rotator Muscle Group" ], "definition": "The rotator cuff is a dynamic functional complex comprising the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis muscles and their confluent tendinous insertions encapsulating the humeral head, stabilizing it within the glenoid fossa (concavity-compression) during arm elevation and rotation.", "clinical": "Rotator cuff pathology ranges from subacromial impingement and tendinopathy to partial-thickness and massive full-thickness tears. Key presentations include sleep-disturbing night pain and arm elevation weakness. Management is guided by tear thickness, retraction (Patte stage), fatty degeneration (Goutallier stage), and functional expectations via conservative rehabilitation or arthroscopic tendon repair.", "clarification": "Shoulder pain can arise from the cuff, capsule, joint or neck. Night pain alone is not diagnostic. Persistent pain or post-traumatic weakness warrants examination; ultrasound or MRI is selected when indicated. Exercise should avoid loads that substantially worsen symptoms.", "symptoms": [ "Characteristic night pain and insomnia exacerbated when lying directly on the affected shoulder", "Subacromial dull ache during mid-range arm abduction between 60° and 120° (Painful Arc sign)", "Weakness and deep fatigue when lifting objects overhead, combing hair, or reaching behind the back", "Restricted active elevation with audible or palpable crepitus during shoulder motion" ], "causes": [ "Degenerative wear and subacromial impingement: Repetitive mechanical rubbing of the supraspinatus beneath the anterior acromion", "Repetitive overhead loading: High-velocity overhead strokes in tennis, badminton, volleyball, and swimming", "Acute mechanical trauma: Fall onto an outstretched abducted arm or sudden violent jerk while lifting heavy loads" ], "diagnostics": [ "Physical Diagnostic Signs: Neer impingement test, Hawkins-Kennedy test, Jobe Empty-Can test, and External Rotation Lag Sign", "3.0T High-Resolution Shoulder MRI: Diagnostic benchmark for tear dimensions, retraction degree, and rotator cuff muscle atrophy/fatty infiltration", "Dynamic High-Frequency Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Real-time visualization of tendon gliding and cortical footprint discontinuity" ], "treatments": [ "Tiered Conservative Protocol: Initial management for partial-thickness tears and tendinopathy combining NSAIDs, scapular dyskinesis correction, and periscapular stabilization", "Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair (ARCR): Standard anatomical reconstruction for full-thickness tears with functional deficit using suture anchors", "Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty (rTSA): Indicated for elderly patients with massive, irreparable cuff tears accompanied by rotator cuff tear arthropathy" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "After cuff repair, sling use and passive or active movement depend on tear size, tissue quality and fixation. Progress protection and motion to resistance and overhead tasks under the treating team; nonsurgical care follows its own programme." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden inability to lift the arm after trauma needs prompt assessment for tear, fracture or dislocation. Fever with a hot swollen shoulder, a cold limb or progressive neurological loss warrants urgent care." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-04", "sources": [ { "title": "Rotator Cuff Tears", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/rotator-cuff-tears/" }, { "title": "Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy and Tears", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8291-rotator-cuff-tears" }, { "title": "Diagnosis and Management of Rotator Cuff Tears", "organization": "Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)", "url": "https://www.hss.edu/condition-list_rotator-cuff-injuries.asp" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/rotator-cuff/", "relatedTerms": [ "glenoid-labrum", "tendinopathy", "arthroscopy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "rotator-cuff-tear-need-surgery", "frozen-shoulder-vs-rotator-cuff", "night-shoulder-pain-rotator-cuff", "overhead-sport-shoulder-pain" ] }, { "slug": "glenoid-labrum", "englishName": "Glenoid labrum", "category": "anatomy", "categoryLabel": "Anatomy", "name": "Glenoid Labrum", "aliases": [ "Glenoid Labrum", "Shoulder Labrum", "Labral Cartilage Rim" ], "definition": "The glenoid labrum is a specialized ring of dense fibrocartilage attached circumferentially around the rim of the glenoid fossa, effectively deepening the shallow socket by up to 50% and serving as the essential anchor for the glenohumeral capsuloligamentous complex and the long head of the biceps tendon.", "clinical": "Labral pathology broadly encompasses Bankart lesions (anterior-inferior avulsion following traumatic anterior dislocation causing recurrent instability) and SLAP tears (superior labrum anterior-to-posterior avulsion at the biceps anchor common in overhead throwing athletes). High-risk athletic instability requires precise assessment of glenoid bone loss to determine arthroscopic repair versus Latarjet bone block transfer.", "clarification": "The labrum differs distinctly from the rotator cuff; the labrum is a static fibrocartilaginous stabilizer whereas the rotator cuff provides dynamic muscular control. Age-related labral fraying on MRI in middle-aged adults is frequently a benign degenerative finding rather than a surgical mandate; isolated non-unstable SLAP tears are initially managed with kinetic chain physical therapy.", "symptoms": [ "Sudden sharp deep pain or transient loss of throwing velocity ('Dead Arm Syndrome') during overhead cocking or acceleration", "Painful clicking, popping, catching, or deep grinding inside the shoulder during rotational movements", "Apprehension, looseness, or subjective subluxation sensation during 90/90 abduction and external rotation", "Vague deep posterior or anterior shoulder ache worsened by heavy bench pressing or overhead activity" ], "causes": [ "Acute traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation: Tearing the anterior-inferior labrum off the glenoid margin (Bankart lesion)", "Repetitive high-velocity overhead deceleration forces: Eccentric peel-back torque at the biceps anchor in throwing sports (SLAP tear)", "Axial loading trauma: Fall onto an outstretched abducted hand driving the humeral head superiorly against the upper labrum" ], "diagnostics": [ "Clinical Provocative Tests: O'Brien Active Compression test, Speed test, Apprehension test, and Relocation test", "Magnetic Resonance Arthrogram (MRA) / High-Resolution 3.0T MRI: Gold standard for detecting labral detachments, paralabral cysts, and biceps anchor instability", "3D-CT Glenoid Reconstruction: Precisely quantifies percentage of glenoid rim bone loss ('inverted pear' configuration)" ], "treatments": [ "Structured Neuromuscular Rehabilitation: Focuses on kinetic chain integration, posterior capsule stretching, and scapular dyskinesis correction for non-unstable labral pathology", "Arthroscopic Labral Stabilization (Bankart / SLAP Repair): Anatomical re-fixation to the glenoid rim using modern biocomposite suture anchors", "Latarjet Coracoid Bone Transfer: Open bone-block procedure indicated for recurrent instability with significant critical glenoid bone loss (>15-20%)" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Bankart repair, SLAP repair and bony stabilization need different restrictions. Protect tissue and restore motion, then cuff and scapular control; assess stability, strength and sport tasks before throwing or contact." } ], "redFlags": [ "Acute joint dislocation locked out of socket (demands immediate urgent reduction under anesthesia, never forceful self-reduction)", "Deltoid numbness or acute loss of shoulder abduction power (indicates concomitant axillary nerve neuropraxia)", "Recurrent spontaneous subluxations occurring during minor daily activities" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-04", "sources": [ { "title": "SLAP Tears and Shoulder Labrum Injuries", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/slap-tears/" }, { "title": "Shoulder Labral Tears: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Arthroscopic Treatment", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21717-shoulder-labral-tear" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/glenoid-labrum/", "relatedTerms": [ "rotator-cuff", "articular-cartilage", "arthroscopy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "shoulder-slap-tear-symptoms", "recurrent-shoulder-dislocation-surgery", "shoulder-clicking-need-mri", "shoulder-dislocation-self-reduction" ] }, { "slug": "articular-cartilage", "englishName": "Articular cartilage", "category": "anatomy", "categoryLabel": "Anatomy", "name": "Articular Cartilage", "aliases": [ "Articular Cartilage", "Hyaline Cartilage", "Joint Surface Cartilage" ], "definition": "Articular cartilage is a highly specialized, aneural, avascular, and alymphatic layer of hyaline cartilage covering the epiphyseal bone surfaces of synovial joints, measuring 2-4 mm in thickness, providing a nearly frictionless gliding interface and dynamic viscoelastic shock absorption.", "clinical": "Due to absence of vascularity and residing chondrocytes confined within a dense extracellular matrix, articular cartilage has virtually no capacity for spontaneous healing. Untreated focal full-thickness chondral defects often progress to premature osteoarthritis. Management is tiered based on defect size, depth (ICRS grades I-IV), and patient activity via marrow stimulation, osteochondral transfer (OATS), or autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI).", "clarification": "A focal isolated chondral defect in a young active individual is clinically distinct from widespread end-stage osteoarthritis in an older adult; modern restorative biologic techniques (e.g., MACI, OATS) are indicated for contained focal defects rather than diffuse joint-wide degeneration; no oral supplement has been proven to regenerate lost hyaline articular cartilage.", "symptoms": [ "Deep, poorly localized joint ache exacerbated following impact loading or prolonged walking", "Palpable or audible bone-on-bone roughness and coarse crepitus during active joint excursion", "Recurrent synovial effusions and non-infectious fluid swelling following intense exertion", "Sudden locking or mechanical catching if a loose chondral fragment or osteochondral loose body is dislodged" ], "causes": [ "High-energy traumatic shear impact: Acute athletic twisting or dislocation causing focal chondral impaction fractures", "Secondary mechanical instability: Chronic shear forces following ACL tears or meniscectomy predisposing to focal wear", "Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): Localized subchondral avascular necrosis with overlying cartilage delamination in adolescents" ], "diagnostics": [ "High-Resolution 3.0T Cartilage MRI Protocols (T2-mapping, 3D-FSPGR): Highly sensitive in detecting matrix biochemical degradation, cartilage fissuring, and subchondral marrow edema", "Weight-Bearing Full-Length Alignment Radiographs: Identifies mechanical axis malalignment causing focal compartmental overload", "Arthroscopic Mechanical Probing: The gold standard for assessing chondral softening, fibrillations, and defect containment (ICRS classification)" ], "treatments": [ "Conservative & Biologic Regulation: Weight optimization, low-impact conditioning (swimming, cycling), and intra-articular PRP/HA injections to optimize joint homeostasis", "Marrow Stimulation (Microfracture): Indicated for small focal defects (< 2 cm²) to release mesenchymal stem cells and form fibrocartilage repair tissue", "Advanced Cartilage Restoration (OATS / MACI): Gold standard for large, full-thickness defects (> 2-4 cm²) in young active patients to regenerate true hyaline-like matrix" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Rehabilitation depends on defect location, size and any repair procedure. Follow procedure-specific loading and motion restrictions; restore strength and function. Imaging improvement alone cannot clear sport participation." } ], "redFlags": [ "Acute mechanical joint locking with sharp incapacitating pain (suggests an intra-articular loose body)", "Tense, hot, rapidly swelling joint with severe unremitting night pain", "Complete inability to bear any weight on the affected limb" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-04", "sources": [ { "title": "Articular Cartilage Restoration Techniques and Guidelines", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/treatment/articular-cartilage-restoration/" }, { "title": "Cartilage Damage and Repair in the Athlete", "organization": "Mayo Clinic", "url": "https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cartilage-repair/about/pac-20384877" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/articular-cartilage/", "relatedTerms": [ "meniscus", "arthroscopy", "platelet-rich-plasma" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "articular-cartilage-self-healing", "cartilage-injury-surgical-repair-options", "black-phosphorus-clinical-use" ] }, { "slug": "tendinopathy", "englishName": "Tendinopathy", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Tendinopathy", "aliases": [ "Tendinopathy", "Tendon Disorder", "Chronic Tendinitis", "Tendinosis" ], "definition": "Tendinopathy is a clinical problem of load-related tendon pain and impaired function, sometimes accompanied by structural changes and involving multiple biological processes.", "clinical": "Load management and site-specific progressive strengthening underpin treatment. Adapt rehabilitation to symptoms, function and goals; adjunct benefits vary by condition.", "clarification": "Prolonged complete rest may reduce load tolerance, but exercise dose matters. Injections do not replace rehabilitation; evaluate corticosteroid and PRP benefits and risks for the specific condition.", "symptoms": [ "Classic 'Warm-Up Phenomenon': Pain and morning stiffness that ease with light warm-up activity but return with increased severity hours after cessation or the following morning", "Pinpoint tenderness, palpable tendon thickening, or focal nodular swelling", "Sharp localized pain provoked by tensile loading (e.g., single-leg calf raise for Achilles, decline squat for patellar tendon)", "Reduced athletic power output, decreased spring efficiency, and impaired stretch-shortening cycle tolerance" ], "causes": [ "Load management errors: Rapid spikes in training volume, intensity, frequency, or hard surface impact exceeding adaptive collagen turnover", "Kinetic chain biomechanical deficits: Muscle weakness, joint stiffness, or hyperpronation overloading the tendon", "Metabolic and systemic factors: Aging, dyslipidemia, diabetes, or fluoroquinolone antibiotic exposure" ], "diagnostics": [ "Functional Loading Provocation Tests: Single-leg heel drop test, Royal London Hospital test, and decline single-leg squat", "High-Frequency Musculoskeletal Ultrasound & Power Doppler: Quantifies tendon thickness, hypoechoic collagen disruption, and abnormal neovascularization", "High-Field 3.0T MRI: Identifies intratendinous mucoid degeneration, macroscopic partial tears, and enthesis bone marrow edema" ], "treatments": [ "Use progressive resistance and monitor response. Persistent symptoms warrant diagnostic and programme review before discussing shockwave, injections or surgery and their evidence limitations." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Individualize loading to the tendon and next-day response. Progress tolerable strength work to resistance and sport tasks; reduce load and reassess marked flares." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden loud snap or sensation of being struck by a rock followed by immediate loss of function (indicates acute complete tendon rupture)", "Palpable gap or defect along the tendon contour with rapid ecchymosis", "Complete inability to perform a single-leg heel raise" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-09", "sources": [ { "title": "Tendinopathy: Clinical Overview, Pathophysiology & Management", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22289-tendinopathy" }, { "title": "Revisiting the continuum model of tendon pathology: what is its merit in clinical practice and research?", "organization": "British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM)", "url": "https://researchmgt.monash.edu/ws/portalfiles/portal/299136036/80606387_oa.pdf" }, { "title": "Achilles Tendinopathy and Tendon Overload Injuries", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/achilles-tendinitis/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/tendinopathy/", "relatedTerms": [ "rotator-cuff", "platelet-rich-plasma", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "chronic-tendinopathy-rest-or-strength-training", "achilles-tendinopathy-vs-rupture", "jumper-knee-patellar-tendinopathy", "tennis-elbow-without-tennis" ] }, { "slug": "stress-fracture", "englishName": "Stress fracture", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Stress Fracture", "aliases": [ "Stress Fracture", "Fatigue Fracture", "Bone Stress Injury", "BSI" ], "definition": "A stress fracture is a microscopic focal cortical disruption or complete structural break in bone resulting from the cumulative accumulation of repetitive, submaximal mechanical loads that outpace normal osteoclast-osteoblast bone remodeling and repair capacity, predominantly involving weight-bearing bones of the lower extremity.", "clinical": "Stress fractures represent the high-grade end of the Bone Stress Injury (BSI) spectrum. Clinical management stratifies injuries into low-risk sites (posteromedial tibia, 2nd/3rd metatarsal shafts with favorable vascularity) versus high-risk sites (tension-side femoral neck, anterior tibial cortex, navicular, 5th metatarsal Jones fracture) that carry substantial risks of nonunion, avascular necrosis, or catastrophic displacement, frequently requiring operative screw stabilization.", "clarification": "Normal initial X-rays do NOT exclude an early stress fracture! Plain radiograph false-negative rates range between 50% and 70% during the first 2-3 weeks; high-field 3.0T MRI remains the gold-standard diagnostic modality for capturing early endosteal/periosteal marrow edema; resolution of pain does not equate to cortical bony union, and premature return to impact activity risks complete fracture displacement.", "symptoms": [ "Focal, exquisitely well-localized point tenderness elicited with single-finger palpation over bone", "Insidious onset of localized aching during weight-bearing or running that progressively worsens and eventually persists during normal walking and nocturnal rest", "Localized periosteal thickening, discrete focal edema, or pitting soft-tissue swelling", "Inability to perform a pain-free single-leg hop test" ], "causes": [ "Training load errors: Rapid spikes in running volume, sudden introduction of plyometrics, or hard running surface transitions", "Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs): Inadequate caloric availability, low bone mineral density, amenorrhea, and vitamin D insufficiency", "Biomechanical alignment anomalies: Rigid high arches (pes cavus) or excessive pronation (pes planus) concentrating skeletal impact forces" ], "diagnostics": [ "Physical Diagnostic Signs: Single-finger bone palpation, Fulcrum test (for femoral shaft stress fractures), and Tuning fork vibration test", "3.0T High-Resolution MRI: Benchmark for diagnosing bone stress injuries (Fredericson Grades 1 to 4) prior to radiographic changes", "High-Resolution Computed Tomography (CT) / Serial Radiography: Delineates cortical radiolucent fracture lines and periosteal callus bridging" ], "treatments": [ "Choose protection, loading limits or surgery by site, fracture pattern and risk. Assess nutrition and bone health; supplements depend on deficiencies, and active vitamin D is not a routine self-treatment." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Limit loading and impact according to fracture site and risk; address low energy availability. Resume walk-run progression after clinical assessment of healing and tolerance; high-risk sites may need imaging and longer protection." } ], "redFlags": [ "Deep groin or anterior hip pain upon weight-bearing with an antalgic limp (urgent emergency evaluation needed to rule out tension-side femoral neck fracture to prevent femoral head osteonecrosis)", "Anterior 'dreaded black line' on the tibial cortex (indicates high nonunion risk on the tension cortex)", "Severe unremitting nocturnal throbbing bone pain" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-09", "sources": [ { "title": "Stress Fractures: Clinical Diagnosis, Treatment & Return to Sport", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/stress-fractures/" }, { "title": "Stress Fractures Overview & High-Risk Management", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15841-stress-fractures" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/stress-fracture/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy", "proprioception" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "stress-fracture-normal-xray", "shin-splints-vs-stress-fracture", "relative-energy-deficiency-in-sport-red-s" ] }, { "slug": "arthroscopy", "englishName": "Arthroscopy", "category": "treatment", "categoryLabel": "Tests & treatments", "name": "Arthroscopy", "aliases": [ "Arthroscopy", "Arthroscopic Surgery", "Keyhole Joint Surgery", "Minimally Invasive Arthroscopy" ], "definition": "Arthroscopy is an advanced minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a high-definition endoscope (arthroscope) and specialized micro-instruments are introduced into a joint cavity through tiny 0.5 cm portal incisions, enabling panoramic magnified visualization, dynamic mechanical probing, and definitive surgical treatment.", "clinical": "Arthroscopy is the foundational cornerstone of contemporary sports medicine and joint preservation, standardly utilized across knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist joints. It allows complex anatomical ligament reconstructions, meniscal/labral/rotator cuff repairs, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) cam/pincer osteochondroplasty, and cartilage restoration with minimal collateral soft-tissue trauma and rapid functional recovery.", "clarification": "Small skin incisions do NOT imply that major internal healing is unnecessary! While tiny portal incisions close in days, biologically repaired tendons, stitched fibrocartilage menisci, or reconstructed ligaments require 6 to 12 weeks for robust collagen-bone remodeling; post-operative rehabilitation and brace compliance are mandatory.", "symptoms": [ "Diagnostic and definitive therapeutic access for refractory joint pain, mechanical clicking, or catching", "Resolution of joint instability, giving-way, or true mechanical locking" ], "causes": [ "Intra-articular ligament tears (anterior/posterior cruciate, collateral ligament complexes)", "Fibrocartilaginous and chondral tears (meniscus, shoulder/hip labrum, focal chondral flaps)", "Mechanical impingement syndromes (FAI, subacromial impingement, ankle anterior/posterior spurs) and loose bodies" ], "diagnostics": [ "Preoperative High-Resolution 3.0T MRI & 3D-CT: Exact anatomical mapping and portal trajectory planning", "Intraoperative Dynamic Probing: Direct palpation of tissue tension and chondral firmness (the diagnostic gold standard)" ], "treatments": [ "Arthroscopic Meniscal / Rotator Cuff Repair: Anatomical re-fixation using all-inside suture systems and biocomposite suture anchors", "Anatomical Ligament Reconstruction: Precision tunnel drilling and rigid graft fixation", "Motorized Resection & Bone Decompression: High-speed burr osteochondroplasty and synovectomy" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Recovery depends on the tissue treated and operation performed. Individualize wound care, thrombosis prevention, bracing, loading and motion; return to work and sport follows healing and functional assessment." } ], "redFlags": [ "Calf pain, swelling, and tenderness upon passive dorsiflexion (requires urgent duplex ultrasound to rule out deep vein thrombosis DVT)", "Progressive wound erythema, purulent drainage, and fever > 38.5°C (urgent septic arthritis workup)", "Distal motor weakness or numbness in the foot or hand" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-09", "sources": [ { "title": "Arthroscopy: Minimal Access Joint Surgery and Diagnostic Principles", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/treatment/arthroscopy/" }, { "title": "Arthroscopy: Purpose, Procedure & Recovery Guidelines", "organization": "Mayo Clinic", "url": "https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/arthroscopy/about/pac-20392974" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/arthroscopy/", "relatedTerms": [ "meniscus", "rotator-cuff", "articular-cartilage", "anterior-cruciate-ligament" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "meniscus-repair-vs-meniscectomy", "rotator-cuff-tear-need-surgery", "hip-labral-tear-arthroscopy" ] }, { "slug": "platelet-rich-plasma", "englishName": "Platelet-rich plasma", "abbreviation": "PRP", "category": "treatment", "categoryLabel": "Tests & treatments", "name": "Platelet-Rich Plasma", "aliases": [ "Platelet-Rich Plasma", "PRP", "Autologous Conditioned Plasma", "Platelet Gel" ], "definition": "Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a platelet concentrate prepared from the patient’s blood; composition varies with the preparation method.", "clinical": "PRP may relieve symptoms in some knee osteoarthritis and tendon conditions. Benefits vary by condition and preparation; evidence for Achilles, patellar and acute muscle injuries remains uncertain.", "clarification": "PRP is not a stem-cell product and cannot guarantee cartilage regeneration. Autologous blood does not eliminate injection risks such as infection, bleeding, pain or tissue injury.", "symptoms": [ "Selected knee osteoarthritis or chronic tendon conditions may warrant discussion after assessment." ], "causes": [ "The underlying diagnosis, previous treatment response and patient goals guide consideration." ], "diagnostics": [ "Confirm diagnosis and review medication, bleeding and infection risks; select imaging and guidance as clinically needed." ], "treatments": [ "Discuss benefits, limitations and alternatives before injection; formulation and injection schedules are not standardized across conditions." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Adjust activity to the injection response and underlying condition, then reload gradually. Discuss analgesic and anti-inflammatory use with the clinician; do not stop prescribed medicines independently. Worsening pain needs reassessment." } ], "redFlags": [ "Increasing redness, warmth, pain, drainage, fever or neurological symptoms need prompt assessment; infection can occur without high fever." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-09", "sources": [ { "title": "Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/treatment/platelet-rich-plasma-prp/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/platelet-rich-plasma/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "prp-injection-sports-injury", "chronic-tendinopathy-rest-or-strength-training" ] }, { "slug": "proprioception", "englishName": "Proprioception", "category": "rehabilitation", "categoryLabel": "Rehabilitation", "name": "Proprioception", "aliases": [ "Proprioception", "Position Sense", "Kinesthesia", "Neuromuscular Control", "Joint Position Sense" ], "definition": "Proprioception is the specialized neurophysiological capacity of the central nervous system to sense dynamic joint position, movement trajectory, force output, and limb velocity in space, transduced through mechanoreceptors located within muscles (muscle spindles), tendons (Golgi tendon organs), joint capsules, and ligaments (Ruffini endings, Pacinian corpuscles).", "clinical": "Following joint trauma or ligament rupture (e.g., ACL, ATFL), mechanoreceptor disruption precipitates profound deafferentation, manifest clinically as subjective 'giving-way', micro-instability, and recurrent sprains. Contemporary sports rehabilitation prioritizes neuromuscular retraining across foam pads, BOSU domes, reactive perturbations, and stroboscopic visual deprivation to restore spinal reflex and cortical motor mapping.", "clarification": "Strength recovery does NOT equate to restored proprioception or dynamic motor control! Athletes frequently achieve normal peak quadriceps strength yet suffer re-injury because reflex neuromuscular stabilization fails to fire within the critical 50-millisecond window of sudden unpredicted joint perturbation.", "symptoms": [ "Subjective sensation of joint 'giving-way', buckling, or recurring micro-sprains on uneven terrain", "Marked postural instability and unsteadiness when attempting to balance with eyes closed (positive Romberg sign)", "Poor dynamic knee alignment, stiff landings, and excessive knee valgus during jump landings", "Sluggish movement coordination, diminished agility, and inaccurate limb spatial orientation" ], "causes": [ "Ligamentous tears and joint deafferentation: Physical avulsion of neural mechanoreceptors", "Post-injury immobilization: Cortical sensorimotor neuroplastic regression during prolonged casting or non-weight-bearing", "Neuromuscular latency deficits: Delayed activation timing of dynamic stabilizing muscle groups" ], "diagnostics": [ "Joint Position Sense (JPS) Angle Reproduction Testing: Measures angular repositioning error without visual input", "Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) & Dynamic Y-Balance Test (YBT): Quantifies multi-directional dynamic postural stability", "Drop-Vertical Jump Video Analysis: Evaluates dynamic knee valgus angles and deceleration landing mechanics" ], "treatments": [ "Static Unilateral Balance Protocols: Progression from firm ground to foam pad with eye closure", "Dynamic Neuromuscular Training: BOSU ball conditioning, agility ladder footwork, and jump-landing deceleration drills (Hop-to-stabilize)", "Reactive Perturbation & Stroboscopic Retraining: External nudges, oscillating resistance bands, and stroboscopic visual deprivation" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation context and progression", "description": "Start with supported balance on firm ground, then dynamic and sport tasks. Select eyes-closed or unstable-surface challenges safely. A single balance score cannot determine sport readiness." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden acute onset of ataxia, vertigo, nystagmus, or unsteadiness (demands emergency stroke and central vestibular workup)", "Progressive focal muscle weakness or sensory loss", "Unprovoked frequent falling associated with transient loss of consciousness" ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-09", "sources": [ { "title": "Proprioception: Clinical Significance, Sensory Pathways & Rehabilitation", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proprioception" }, { "title": "Foot and Ankle Conditioning Program", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/globalassets/pdfs/foot-and-ankle-conditioning-program---2025.pdf" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/proprioception/", "relatedTerms": [ "anterior-cruciate-ligament", "meniscus", "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "recurrent-ankle-sprain", "return-to-sport-criteria", "knee-giving-way" ] }, { "slug": "ankle-sprain", "englishName": "Ankle sprain", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Ankle sprain", "aliases": [ "Ankle sprain", "Sprained ankle", "Twisted ankle", "Inversion ankle sprain" ], "definition": "An ankle sprain stretches or tears stabilizing ligaments, commonly on the outer ankle.", "clinical": "Assessment distinguishes ligament injury from fracture and identifies persistent instability.", "clarification": "Walking does not exclude ligament damage. MRI is usually unnecessary initially.", "symptoms": [ "Pain, swelling, bruising or giving way." ], "causes": [ "Awkward landing, sudden turning or uneven ground." ], "diagnostics": [ "History, tenderness and weight-bearing assessment; X-rays if fracture is suspected." ], "treatments": [ "Protection, progressive weight-bearing and rehabilitation usually suffice; persistent instability needs reassessment." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Restore gait and motion, then calf strength and balance before progressing to running and directional changes." } ], "redFlags": [ "Deformity, a cold or numb foot, or inability to bear weight needs prompt assessment." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-18", "sources": [ { "title": "Sprained Ankle", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/sprained-ankle/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/ankle-sprain/", "relatedTerms": [ "proprioception", "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "ankle-sprain-need-xray", "ankle-sprain-return-to-sport", "recurrent-ankle-sprain", "high-ankle-sprain" ] }, { "slug": "patellofemoral-pain", "englishName": "Patellofemoral pain", "abbreviation": "PFP", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Patellofemoral pain", "aliases": [ "Patellofemoral pain syndrome", "PFPS", "Runner's knee", "Anterior knee pain" ], "definition": "Pain around or behind the kneecap, commonly during loaded knee bending.", "clinical": "Assess activity load, hip and knee strength and movement control.", "clarification": "Anterior knee pain does not establish cartilage damage.", "symptoms": [ "Pain with stairs, squats, running or prolonged sitting." ], "causes": [ "Load increases and repeated knee bending can contribute." ], "diagnostics": [ "History and examination; imaging for persistent or atypical symptoms." ], "treatments": [ "Load adjustment and progressive hip and quadriceps strengthening; selected taping or orthoses may help." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Progress from tolerable strengthening to steps and running, monitoring symptoms during exercise and the next day." } ], "redFlags": [ "Marked acute swelling, fever, locking or inability to bear weight needs prompt evaluation." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-18", "sources": [ { "title": "Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/patellofemoral-pain-syndrome/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/patellofemoral-pain/", "relatedTerms": [ "articular-cartilage", "proprioception" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "anterior-knee-pain-stairs-squat", "jumper-knee-patellar-tendinopathy" ] }, { "slug": "lateral-epicondylitis", "englishName": "Lateral epicondylitis", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Tennis elbow", "aliases": [ "Tennis elbow", "Lateral epicondylitis", "Lateral elbow tendinopathy" ], "definition": "Lateral epicondylitis is painful tendinopathy at the outer elbow wrist-extensor attachment.", "clinical": "It can limit grip and work; nerve entrapment may mimic it.", "clarification": "Tennis participation is unnecessary, and chronic tendon changes extend beyond inflammation.", "symptoms": [ "Outer elbow tenderness and pain with gripping or resisted wrist extension." ], "causes": [ "Repetitive gripping, wrist extension or increased arm load." ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination; imaging or nerve assessment for atypical or persistent symptoms." ], "treatments": [ "Modify load and progressively strengthen wrist extensors; consider supports or analgesia individually." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Build from tolerable wrist exercises to gripping, lifting and sport tasks." } ], "redFlags": [ "Traumatic deformity, a hot swollen elbow or progressive hand numbness or weakness requires assessment." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-18", "sources": [ { "title": "Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/tennis-elbow-lateral-epicondylitis/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/lateral-epicondylitis/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy", "platelet-rich-plasma" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "tennis-elbow-without-tennis", "golfers-vs-tennis-elbow" ] }, { "slug": "adhesive-capsulitis", "englishName": "Adhesive capsulitis", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Frozen shoulder", "aliases": [ "Frozen shoulder", "Adhesive capsulitis", "Painful stiff shoulder" ], "definition": "Adhesive capsulitis causes shoulder pain and restricted active and passive motion.", "clinical": "External rotation is often limited; recovery can be prolonged.", "clarification": "Night pain alone cannot diagnose it, and rotator cuff disease may coexist.", "symptoms": [ "Pain, night discomfort and difficulty dressing or reaching behind." ], "causes": [ "Often unexplained; diabetes, thyroid disease and immobilization increase risk." ], "diagnostics": [ "Compare active and passive motion; X-rays may exclude arthritis." ], "treatments": [ "Pain control and gentle mobility exercises; consider joint injection or further treatment if persistent." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Avoid forceful stretching during painful phases; progressively restore motion, strength and daily function." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden loss of elevation after trauma, fever with a hot shoulder or progressive neurological symptoms needs assessment." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-18", "sources": [ { "title": "Frozen Shoulder", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/frozen-shoulder/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/adhesive-capsulitis/", "relatedTerms": [ "rotator-cuff", "glenoid-labrum" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "frozen-shoulder-vs-rotator-cuff" ] }, { "slug": "achilles-tendinopathy", "englishName": "Achilles tendinopathy", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Achilles tendinopathy", "aliases": [ "Achilles tendinitis", "Achilles tendinopathy", "Achilles tendonitis" ], "definition": "Load-related Achilles pain and reduced function affect the midportion or heel attachment.", "clinical": "Location guides exercise range and loading.", "clarification": "Chronic pain and acute rupture require different care.", "symptoms": [ "Morning stiffness, pain with heel raises or running, and thickening." ], "causes": [ "Rapid load increases, inadequate recovery or calf deficits." ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination; ultrasound or MRI if diagnosis is uncertain or tearing suspected." ], "treatments": [ "Adjust impact load and progressively strengthen the calf." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Progress heel raises to resistance, hopping and running; avoid unsupervised deep heel drops for insertional pain." } ], "redFlags": [ "A sudden pop, severe posterior ankle pain or loss of push-off needs prompt assessment for rupture." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-18", "sources": [ { "title": "Achilles Tendinitis", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/achilles-tendinitis/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/achilles-tendinopathy/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy", "ankle-sprain" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "achilles-tendinopathy-vs-rupture", "achilles-rupture-can-walk", "achilles-rupture-need-surgery" ] }, { "slug": "medial-collateral-ligament-injury", "englishName": "Medial collateral ligament injury", "abbreviation": "MCL", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Medial collateral ligament injury", "aliases": [ "MCL injury", "MCL tear", "Medial collateral ligament tear", "MCL sprain" ], "definition": "An MCL injury stretches or tears the ligament stabilizing the inner knee.", "clinical": "Check for associated cruciate ligament or meniscus injury.", "clarification": "Most isolated injuries heal without surgery; pain alone does not grade the tear.", "symptoms": [ "Inner knee pain, swelling or sideways instability." ], "causes": [ "An outer-knee impact or valgus twisting force." ], "diagnostics": [ "Tenderness and valgus stability assessment; X-ray or MRI when indicated." ], "treatments": [ "Protection and rehabilitation, with bracing and loading limits based on stability." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Restore motion and quadriceps strength while protecting the ligament, then assess stability and sport tasks." } ], "redFlags": [ "Deformity, a cold or numb foot or severe instability requires urgent care." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-25", "sources": [ { "title": "Collateral Ligament Injuries", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/collateral-ligament-injuries/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/medial-collateral-ligament-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "anterior-cruciate-ligament", "meniscus" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "mcl-injury-need-surgery" ] }, { "slug": "posterior-cruciate-ligament-injury", "englishName": "Posterior cruciate ligament injury", "abbreviation": "PCL", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Posterior cruciate ligament injury", "aliases": [ "PCL injury", "PCL tear", "Posterior cruciate ligament tear", "PCL sprain" ], "definition": "The PCL restrains backward tibial movement; injury can cause posterior laxity.", "clinical": "Identify combined ligament, bone and neurovascular injuries.", "clarification": "Some isolated injuries respond to rehabilitation; MRI alone does not determine surgery.", "symptoms": [ "Pain, swelling and instability, sometimes on stairs or slopes." ], "causes": [ "A blow to the shin with a bent knee, a fall onto the knee or hyperextension." ], "diagnostics": [ "Clinician-performed posterior drawer and sag tests, with indicated X-rays and MRI." ], "treatments": [ "Bracing and rehabilitation or reconstruction depending on symptoms and associated injuries." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Protect against posterior sag and restore quadriceps strength; individualize hamstring loading and sport progression." } ], "redFlags": [ "Coldness, numbness, deformity or severe instability after major trauma requires emergency care." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-25", "sources": [ { "title": "Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/posterior-cruciate-ligament-injuries/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/posterior-cruciate-ligament-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "anterior-cruciate-ligament", "medial-collateral-ligament-injury" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "pcl-injury-symptoms" ] }, { "slug": "shoulder-dislocation", "englishName": "Shoulder dislocation", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Shoulder dislocation", "aliases": [ "Dislocated shoulder", "Shoulder dislocation", "Glenohumeral joint dislocation", "Shoulder instability" ], "definition": "The humeral head leaves its socket, sometimes injuring the labrum, ligaments, bone or nerves.", "clinical": "Acute dislocation needs professional reduction and follow-up injury assessment.", "clarification": "A shoulder that relocates spontaneously still needs evaluation.", "symptoms": [ "Severe pain, deformity, restricted movement or numbness." ], "causes": [ "Falls, collisions, forced arm movement or seizures." ], "diagnostics": [ "Assess circulation and nerves, usually with X-rays; additional imaging as indicated." ], "treatments": [ "Professional reduction with appropriate pain relief, protection and rehabilitation; surgery for selected cases." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Restore motion and cuff and scapular strength after individualized protection, then assess sport stability." } ], "redFlags": [ "Suspected unreduced dislocation needs immediate care. Do not force it back yourself; a cold or numb hand is an emergency." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-25", "sources": [ { "title": "Shoulder Dislocation", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/dislocated-shoulder/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/shoulder-dislocation/", "relatedTerms": [ "glenoid-labrum", "rotator-cuff" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "shoulder-dislocation-self-reduction", "recurrent-shoulder-dislocation-surgery" ] }, { "slug": "hip-muscle-strain", "englishName": "Hip muscle strain", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Hip muscle strain", "aliases": [ "Groin strain", "Hip flexor strain", "Hip muscle strain", "Adductor strain" ], "definition": "A hip strain damages a supporting muscle or tendon through excessive stretch or force.", "clinical": "Groin or hip pain may also originate from bone or joint disease.", "clarification": "Persistent weight-bearing pain warrants reassessment, including for stress fracture.", "symptoms": [ "Pain, tenderness, weakness or bruising, aggravated by contraction or stretch." ], "causes": [ "Sprinting, kicking, sudden direction changes or overstretching." ], "diagnostics": [ "Assess tenderness, strength and motion; X-rays if avulsion fracture is suspected." ], "treatments": [ "Brief protection and activity adjustment followed by progressive mobility and strength." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Restore comfortable walking and light contractions before resistance, running and directional changes." } ], "redFlags": [ "Severe deep groin pain, inability to bear weight, deformity or fever needs prompt care." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-25", "sources": [ { "title": "Hip Strains", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/hip-strains/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/hip-muscle-strain/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy", "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "athletic-groin-pain-sports-hernia", "groin-pain-deep-squat-fai" ] }, { "slug": "plantar-fasciitis", "englishName": "Plantar fasciitis", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Plantar fasciitis", "aliases": [ "Plantar fasciitis", "Plantar fasciopathy", "Heel pain syndrome" ], "definition": "Pain at the plantar fascia attachment under the heel is commonly associated with repeated loading.", "clinical": "Assess activity and calf flexibility; consider nerve or bone causes.", "clarification": "A heel spur on X-ray does not prove the pain source or require removal.", "symptoms": [ "Heel pain with first steps after rest and prolonged standing." ], "causes": [ "Increased load, prolonged standing, calf tightness and body weight may contribute." ], "diagnostics": [ "History and local tenderness; imaging for atypical or persistent pain." ], "treatments": [ "Adjust load, gently stretch fascia and calf, and use suitable footwear." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Gradually restore walking, strength and running while monitoring next-morning pain." } ], "redFlags": [ "Inability to bear weight after injury, a hot red foot with fever or progressive numbness needs assessment." ], "updatedAt": "2026-09-25", "sources": [ { "title": "Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/plantar-fasciitis-and-bone-spurs/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/plantar-fasciitis/", "relatedTerms": [ "achilles-tendinopathy", "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "plantar-fasciitis-morning-heel-pain" ] }, { "slug": "hamstring-strain", "englishName": "Hamstring strain", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Hamstring strain", "aliases": [ "Hamstring strain", "Hamstring tear", "Pulled hamstring", "Hamstring muscle injury" ], "definition": "An injury to posterior thigh muscle or tendon ranges from minor fiber damage to complete tearing.", "clinical": "Distinguish muscle injury from proximal tendon avulsion, which may need surgery.", "clarification": "Comfortable walking does not establish readiness for sprinting.", "symptoms": [ "Sudden posterior thigh pain, tenderness, bruising or weakness." ], "causes": [ "Sprinting, kicking or forceful stretch; fatigue and prior injury increase risk." ], "diagnostics": [ "History and strength examination; MRI for suspected major tear and X-ray for bony avulsion." ], "treatments": [ "Protect briefly, modify load and rebuild strength; assess severe avulsions with a specialist." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Progress walking and light exercise to eccentric strength and acceleration according to function." } ], "redFlags": [ "A palpable defect, extensive bruising, inability to walk or neurological symptoms needs prompt assessment." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-28", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Hamstring Muscle Injuries", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/hamstring-muscle-injuries/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/hamstring-strain/", "relatedTerms": [ "hip-muscle-strain", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "hamstring-strain-return-to-play", "recurrent-hamstring-strain-strength-training", "proximal-hamstring-avulsion-surgery-vs-conservative" ] }, { "slug": "femoroacetabular-impingement", "englishName": "Femoroacetabular impingement", "abbreviation": "FAI", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome", "aliases": [ "Femoroacetabular impingement", "FAI", "Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome", "FAIS", "Hip impingement" ], "definition": "Symptomatic contact related to hip bone shape can affect the labrum and cartilage.", "clinical": "Symptoms, examination and imaging must agree when planning care.", "clarification": "Cam or pincer morphology alone may be asymptomatic.", "symptoms": [ "Groin pain with flexion, squatting, sitting or turning; stiffness or catching." ], "causes": [ "Femoral or acetabular shape and repeated deep flexion or rotation contribute." ], "diagnostics": [ "History, hip examination and X-rays; MRI for selected soft-tissue assessment." ], "treatments": [ "Modify provoking activities and train hip and trunk control; consider surgery for persistent confirmed disease." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Build tolerable movement, strength and sport tasks; postoperative limits depend on repairs." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden severe pain, inability to bear weight or fever requires assessment." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-28", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Femoroacetabular Impingement", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/femoroacetabular-impingement/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/femoroacetabular-impingement/", "relatedTerms": [ "hip-muscle-strain", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "groin-pain-deep-squat-fai", "fai-xray-need-treatment", "hip-labral-tear-arthroscopy", "hip-arthroscopy-return-to-running-ball-sports" ] }, { "slug": "patellar-instability", "englishName": "Patellar instability", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Patellar instability", "aliases": [ "Patellar instability", "Patellar dislocation", "Patellar subluxation", "Unstable kneecap", "Patellofemoral instability" ], "definition": "The kneecap fails to remain stable in the femoral groove and may subluxate or dislocate.", "clinical": "Assess osteochondral injury after dislocation and anatomical contributors to recurrence.", "clarification": "Spontaneous relocation does not exclude cartilage or bone injury.", "symptoms": [ "Lateral slipping, apprehension, swelling or giving way." ], "causes": [ "Twisting, collision, groove shape, patellar height or lax tissues." ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and X-rays; MRI when ligament or osteochondral assessment is needed." ], "treatments": [ "Professional acute care, protection and rehabilitation; recurrent instability or loose fragments may need surgery." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Restore motion, quadriceps and hip control before progressing sport-specific stability tasks." } ], "redFlags": [ "An unreduced patella, locking, major swelling or inability to bear weight needs prompt care." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-28", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Unstable Kneecap (Patellar Instability)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/unstable-kneecap/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/patellar-instability/", "relatedTerms": [ "patellofemoral-pain", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "first-patellar-dislocation-surgery", "recurrent-patellar-dislocation-mpfl-reconstruction", "recurrent-patellar-dislocation-cartilage", "patellar-instability-fulkerson-tibial-tubercle-osteotomy" ] }, { "slug": "osteochondritis-dissecans", "englishName": "Osteochondritis dissecans", "abbreviation": "OCD", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Osteochondritis dissecans", "aliases": [ "Osteochondritis dissecans", "OCD", "Osteochondral defect", "Joint loose body" ], "definition": "A localized subchondral bone lesion can destabilize or detach overlying cartilage and bone.", "clinical": "Skeletal maturity, stability, size and symptoms guide treatment, commonly at the knee.", "clarification": "The name does not imply bacterial infection or automatic surgery.", "symptoms": [ "Activity pain, swelling or stiffness; unstable fragments may cause locking." ], "causes": [ "The cause is incompletely understood; blood supply, repeated load and genetics may contribute." ], "diagnostics": [ "X-rays locate lesions; MRI helps assess cartilage, stability and healing." ], "treatments": [ "Stable juvenile lesions may need impact restriction and monitoring; unstable or persistent lesions may need fixation or repair." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Protect the lesion, maintain permitted strength work and resume impact according to healing assessments." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden locking, major swelling or inability to bear weight needs prompt care." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-28", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Osteochondritis Dissecans", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/osteochondritis-dissecans/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/osteochondritis-dissecans/", "relatedTerms": [ "articular-cartilage", "arthroscopy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "recurrent-patellar-dislocation-cartilage", "articular-cartilage-self-healing" ] }, { "slug": "osgood-schlatter-disease", "englishName": "Osgood-Schlatter disease", "abbreviation": "OSD", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Osgood-Schlatter disease", "aliases": [ "Osgood-Schlatter disease", "OSD", "Tibial tubercle apophysitis", "Osgood Schlatter syndrome" ], "definition": "Traction-related pain affects the patellar tendon attachment at the tibial tubercle during growth.", "clinical": "Activity decisions depend on pain and functional limitation in adolescents.", "clarification": "The bump may persist after pain resolves; not all adolescent knee pain is growth-related.", "symptoms": [ "Tenderness or swelling below the kneecap, aggravated by running, jumping or kneeling." ], "causes": [ "Repeated tendon traction during growth; muscle tightness may contribute." ], "diagnostics": [ "Usually clinical diagnosis; X-rays for atypical symptoms or acute trauma." ], "treatments": [ "Adapt activity, stretch gently and strengthen; reduce load with marked pain or limping." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Maintain tolerated activity without limping, then increase running and jumping according to symptoms." } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden severe pain, loss of active extension, inability to bear weight or fever needs assessment." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-28", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Osgood-Schlatter Disease (Knee Pain)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/osgood-schlatter-disease-knee-pain/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/osgood-schlatter-disease/", "relatedTerms": [ "patellofemoral-pain", "patellar-tendon-tear" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "adolescent-tibial-tubercle-pain", "jumper-knee-patellar-tendinopathy" ] }, { "slug": "achilles-tendon-rupture", "englishName": "Achilles tendon rupture", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Achilles tendon rupture", "aliases": [ "Achilles tendon rupture", "Achilles tendon tear", "Torn Achilles tendon", "Ruptured Achilles" ], "definition": "Partial or complete tearing of the calf-to-heel tendon weakens push-off.", "clinical": "Early recognition supports selection of functional nonoperative care or surgical repair.", "clarification": "Walking or ankle movement can remain possible despite rupture.", "symptoms": [ "A sudden pop or kicked sensation, posterior pain and weak heel rise." ], "causes": [ "Jumping, acceleration or forced dorsiflexion; tendon disease and some medicines increase risk." ], "diagnostics": [ "Clinical continuity and calf-squeeze testing; ultrasound or MRI if unclear." ], "treatments": [ "Prompt specialist assessment and protection; choose treatment by needs, health and rehabilitation access." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Follow prescribed brace, loading and motion limits before rebuilding heel-rise strength and impact tolerance." } ], "redFlags": [ "Suspected rupture needs prompt care; a cold numb foot, chest pain or breathlessness is an emergency." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-30", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Achilles Tendon Rupture (Tear)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/achilles-tendon-rupture-tear/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/achilles-tendon-rupture/", "relatedTerms": [ "achilles-tendinopathy", "ankle-sprain" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "achilles-rupture-need-surgery", "achilles-rupture-can-walk", "achilles-tendinopathy-vs-rupture", "acute-achilles-rupture-percutaneous-repair-vs-open" ] }, { "slug": "patellar-tendon-tear", "englishName": "Patellar tendon tear", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Patellar tendon tear", "aliases": [ "Patellar tendon tear", "Patellar tendon rupture", "Torn patellar tendon", "Patellar ligament rupture" ], "definition": "Tearing of the kneecap-to-tibia tendon can interrupt active knee extension.", "clinical": "Assess the extensor mechanism promptly; complete tears usually need surgical evaluation.", "clarification": "Chronic tendon pain and acute rupture require different care.", "symptoms": [ "Pain below the kneecap, swelling, bruising, giving way or inability to extend." ], "causes": [ "Forceful landing, falls or direct trauma; prior tendinopathy increases risk." ], "diagnostics": [ "Active extension, straight-leg raise and patellar position; X-rays and MRI as indicated." ], "treatments": [ "Protect and obtain specialist care; partial tears may be managed conservatively, complete tears often repaired." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Follow flexion and loading limits, rebuild quadriceps control and assess function before impact." } ], "redFlags": [ "Loss of active extension, a palpable gap or inability to stand after injury needs prompt care." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-30", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Patellar Tendon Tear", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/patellar-tendon-tear/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/patellar-tendon-tear/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy", "osgood-schlatter-disease" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "patellar-tendon-rupture-vs-tendinitis", "jumper-knee-patellar-tendinopathy" ] }, { "slug": "quadriceps-tendon-tear", "englishName": "Quadriceps tendon tear", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Quadriceps tendon tear", "aliases": [ "Quadriceps tendon tear", "Quadriceps tendon rupture", "Torn quadriceps tendon", "Quad tendon tear" ], "definition": "The tendon connecting the front thigh muscles to the kneecap tears, potentially disabling active extension.", "clinical": "Distinguish partial from complete tearing and assess extension promptly.", "clarification": "Swelling can obscure a tendon gap.", "symptoms": [ "Pain, swelling or a gap above the kneecap, weak extension or giving way." ], "causes": [ "Strong contraction on a loaded bent knee or falling; degeneration and systemic disease may increase risk." ], "diagnostics": [ "Extension and straight-leg raise assessment, X-rays and selected MRI." ], "treatments": [ "Protect the knee; partial tears may need bracing and rehabilitation, complete tears usually surgical assessment." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Increase motion and loading according to healing before rebuilding extension strength." } ], "redFlags": [ "Loss of extension, inability to stand or a cold numb foot requires prompt assessment." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-30", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Quadriceps Tendon Tear", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/quadriceps-tendon-tear/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/quadriceps-tendon-tear/", "relatedTerms": [ "patellar-tendon-tear", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "quadriceps-tendon-rupture-surgery-rehabilitation" ] }, { "slug": "proximal-biceps-tendon-tear", "englishName": "Proximal biceps tendon tear", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Proximal biceps tendon tear", "aliases": [ "Proximal biceps tendon tear", "Biceps tendon tear at the shoulder", "Long head biceps rupture", "Popeye muscle deformity" ], "definition": "A tear at the shoulder attachment commonly involves the long head of biceps.", "clinical": "Assess associated cuff disease and distinguish this from distal tearing at the elbow.", "clarification": "Useful function may remain after long-head rupture; symptoms and demands guide care.", "symptoms": [ "Anterior shoulder pain, bruising, a lowered muscle bulge or weakness." ], "causes": [ "Wear, overhead activity, heavy lifting or falls." ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination of contour and strength; ultrasound or MRI as needed." ], "treatments": [ "Activity modification and rehabilitation often help; persistent pain, cramping or specific needs may favor surgery." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Restore comfortable motion, then elbow flexion, supination and shoulder strength within any repair restrictions." } ], "redFlags": [ "Traumatic anterior elbow pain with weak supination or a cold numb hand needs prompt assessment." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-30", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Biceps Tendon Tear at the Shoulder", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/biceps-tendon-tear-at-the-shoulder/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/proximal-biceps-tendon-tear/", "relatedTerms": [ "rotator-cuff", "glenoid-labrum" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "popeye-bulge-biceps-rupture", "anterior-shoulder-pain-biceps-tendon", "distal-biceps-rupture-surgery" ] }, { "slug": "trochanteric-bursitis", "englishName": "Trochanteric bursitis", "abbreviation": "GTPS", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Trochanteric bursitis", "aliases": [ "Trochanteric bursitis", "Greater trochanteric pain syndrome", "GTPS", "Hip bursitis", "Trochanteric pain" ], "definition": "Irritation of a bursa near the greater trochanter can cause lateral hip pain.", "clinical": "Gluteal tendons may also contribute within greater trochanteric pain syndrome.", "clarification": "Lateral pain alone does not prove bursitis; spinal or joint disease may mimic it.", "symptoms": [ "Lateral tenderness, side-lying pain and symptoms with stairs or prolonged walking." ], "causes": [ "Repeated pressure or load, direct impact and hip mechanics may contribute." ], "diagnostics": [ "Tenderness, motion and strength assessment; imaging when other causes need exclusion." ], "treatments": [ "Reduce compression and provoking load, progressively train hip muscles; select injections individually." ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Rehabilitation progression", "description": "Adjust sleep position and daily load before building hip abduction strength and walking tolerance." } ], "redFlags": [ "Redness with fever, inability to bear weight after trauma or escalating severe pain requires assessment." ], "publishedAt": "2026-09-30", "updatedAt": "2026-09-26", "sources": [ { "title": "Hip Bursitis", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/hip-bursitis/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/trochanteric-bursitis/", "relatedTerms": [ "hip-muscle-strain", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "snapping-hip-joint-damage", "adductor-strain-groin-pain", "iliotibial-band-syndrome-lateral-knee-pain" ] }, { "slug": "lisfranc-injury", "englishName": "Lisfranc injury", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Lisfranc injury", "aliases": [ "Lisfranc injury", "Lisfranc fracture-dislocation", "Midfoot sprain", "Tarsometatarsal joint injury" ], "definition": "Injury to the midfoot tarsometatarsal ligament-joint complex, sometimes with fracture or dislocation.", "clinical": "They can reveal separation hidden on non-weight-bearing views. A clinician should decide whether loading is safe; do not force standing through severe pain. CT or MRI may be needed, with the foot protected meanwhile.", "clarification": "Walking ability does not exclude instability.", "symptoms": [ "Midfoot pain, swelling or plantar bruising" ], "causes": [ "Twisting or axial loading of the foot" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and weight-bearing imaging; CT or MRI when needed" ], "treatments": [ "Protection for stable injuries; surgical assessment for instability" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Progress loading and push-off after stability or healing is confirmed" } ], "redFlags": [ "Deformity, a cold foot or numbness needs emergency care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-01", "updatedAt": "2026-10-01", "sources": [ { "title": "Lisfranc injury", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/lisfranc-midfoot-injury/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/lisfranc-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "ankle-sprain", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "lisfranc-weightbearing-imaging", "lisfranc-stable-injury-followup" ] }, { "slug": "scaphoid-fracture", "englishName": "Scaphoid fracture", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Scaphoid fracture", "aliases": [ "Scaphoid fracture", "Navicular fracture of the wrist", "Carpal scaphoid fracture", "Snuffbox fracture" ], "definition": "A break in the wrist scaphoid, often after a fall onto an outstretched hand.", "clinical": "Less pain does not confirm union. Parts of this bone have limited blood supply. Resume wrist loading gradually only after clinical and imaging review confirms adequate healing and your clinician clears it.", "clarification": "Early normal X-rays do not exclude fracture.", "symptoms": [ "Thumb-sided wrist pain and snuffbox tenderness" ], "causes": [ "Fall onto the hand or direct trauma" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and X-rays; further imaging for occult injury" ], "treatments": [ "Immobilization or surgery according to location and displacement" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Restore strength and weight-bearing after healing review" } ], "redFlags": [ "Pale, cold or increasingly numb fingers need urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-01", "updatedAt": "2026-10-01", "sources": [ { "title": "Scaphoid fracture", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/scaphoid-fracture-of-the-wrist/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/scaphoid-fracture/", "relatedTerms": [ "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "scaphoid-pain-improved-healing", "scaphoid-proximal-pole-blood-supply" ] }, { "slug": "tfcc-injury", "englishName": "Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury", "abbreviation": "TFCC", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "TFCC injury", "aliases": [ "Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury", "TFCC", "TFCC tear", "TFCC injury", "Ulnar wrist pain" ], "definition": "Damage to the ulnar wrist cartilage-ligament complex that supports load transfer and distal radioulnar stability.", "clinical": "No. Degenerative changes can occur without symptoms. Ulnar-sided tenderness, pain with rotation or loading, and distal radioulnar joint stability help determine the relevance of the finding and treatment.", "clarification": "Imaging findings must match clinical symptoms.", "symptoms": [ "Ulnar wrist pain, painful rotation or clicking" ], "causes": [ "Fall, repeated loading or degeneration" ], "diagnostics": [ "Stability examination; MRI or arthroscopy when indicated" ], "treatments": [ "Protection and rehabilitation for stable injuries; assess surgery for persistent symptoms or instability" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Progress rotation and grip according to stability and repair" } ], "redFlags": [ "Traumatic deformity or impaired hand circulation requires urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-01", "updatedAt": "2026-10-01", "sources": [ { "title": "Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21832-triangular-fibrocartilage-complex-tear-tfcc" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/tfcc-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "articular-cartilage", "arthroscopy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "tfcc-mri-tear-symptom-correlation", "tfcc-central-peripheral-treatment" ] }, { "slug": "elbow-ulnar-collateral-ligament-injury", "englishName": "Elbow ulnar collateral ligament injury", "abbreviation": "UCL", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Elbow UCL injury", "aliases": [ "Elbow ulnar collateral ligament injury", "UCL", "Tommy John injury", "Medial collateral ligament of the elbow", "Pitcher's elbow" ], "definition": "Sprain or tear of the ligament resisting valgus stress at the medial elbow.", "clinical": "Resting comfort alone is insufficient. Assess stability, motion, strength and throwing tolerance. Increase distance, volume and intensity gradually under supervision; pain or instability warrants reassessment.", "clarification": "Medial throwing pain can have other causes.", "symptoms": [ "Medial pain, reduced throwing performance or instability" ], "causes": [ "Repeated valgus loading or acute trauma" ], "diagnostics": [ "History, stability tests and indicated imaging" ], "treatments": [ "Modify throwing and rehabilitate; consider repair or reconstruction for persistent instability" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Graded throwing based on strength, stability and tolerance" } ], "redFlags": [ "Persistent hand numbness or progressive weakness needs assessment" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-01", "updatedAt": "2026-10-01", "sources": [ { "title": "Elbow ulnar collateral ligament injury", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/recurrent-and-chronic-elbow-instability/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/elbow-ulnar-collateral-ligament-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "medial-collateral-ligament-injury" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "elbow-ucl-rehab-before-throwing" ] }, { "slug": "ankle-syndesmosis-injury", "englishName": "Ankle syndesmosis injury", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Ankle syndesmosis injury", "aliases": [ "Ankle syndesmosis injury", "High ankle sprain", "Syndesmotic sprain", "Distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury" ], "definition": "Injury of the ligament complex joining tibia and fibula above the ankle, called a high ankle sprain.", "clinical": "Swelling does not reliably indicate syndesmotic stability. Pain above the ankle, painful push-off or rotation warrants examination and sometimes imaging. Instability, separation and associated fractures guide surgical decisions.", "clarification": "Pain severity alone does not determine surgery.", "symptoms": [ "Pain above the ankle or with rotation and push-off" ], "causes": [ "External rotation and dorsiflexion loading" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and X-rays; further imaging if needed" ], "treatments": [ "Protect and rehabilitate stable injuries; consider fixation for instability" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Progress loading, running and jumping by stability and function" } ], "redFlags": [ "Deformity or a cold foot with inability to bear weight needs urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-01", "updatedAt": "2026-10-01", "sources": [ { "title": "Ankle syndesmosis injury", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22249-high-ankle-sprains" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/ankle-syndesmosis-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "ankle-sprain" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "syndesmosis-little-swelling-stability" ] }, { "slug": "spondylolysis", "englishName": "Spondylolysis", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Spondylolysis", "aliases": [ "Spondylolysis", "Pars defect", "Pars interarticularis fracture", "Lumbar stress fracture" ], "definition": "A bony defect of the pars interarticularis, sometimes related to repetitive bone stress.", "clinical": "No. Initial care commonly reduces painful extension and rotation and introduces supervised rehabilitation. Bracing depends on symptoms, lesion stage and response; imaging alone should not dictate its duration.", "clarification": "Spondylolysis and vertebral slippage are distinct, related findings.", "symptoms": [ "Activity-related back pain, often worse with extension" ], "causes": [ "Repeated extension and rotation" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination; X-ray, MRI or CT as indicated" ], "treatments": [ "Reduce provoking loads and rehabilitate; selective bracing or surgery" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Build from comfortable daily activity to trunk strength and sport loads" } ], "redFlags": [ "Bladder or bowel changes, saddle numbness or progressive leg weakness need emergency care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-08", "updatedAt": "2026-10-08", "sources": [ { "title": "Spondylolysis", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/spondylolysis-and-spondylolisthesis/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/spondylolysis/", "relatedTerms": [ "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "spondylolysis-brace-individualized" ] }, { "slug": "de-quervain-tenosynovitis", "englishName": "De Quervain's tenosynovitis", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "De Quervain's tenosynovitis", "aliases": [ "De Quervain's tenosynovitis", "De Quervain tendinopathy", "Radial styloid tenosynovitis", "Mother's wrist", "Texting thumb" ], "definition": "Painful irritation and thickening around thumb tendons in the wrist's first dorsal compartment.", "clinical": "No. Forceful stretching can hurt normal tissues or other wrist conditions. Avoid repeated aggressive self-testing. Diagnosis requires the pain location, history and examination, with other causes considered.", "clarification": "Thumb-sided wrist pain also warrants consideration of fracture or arthritis.", "symptoms": [ "Pain with gripping, lifting or thumb motion" ], "causes": [ "Repeated wrist-thumb loading; also associated with the postpartum period" ], "diagnostics": [ "History and examination; imaging for alternatives when needed" ], "treatments": [ "Activity changes, thumb splint and selective injection; surgery for resistant cases" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Gradually restore thumb motion and grip as symptoms allow" } ], "redFlags": [ "Redness with fever or marked tenderness after trauma needs assessment" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-08", "updatedAt": "2026-10-08", "sources": [ { "title": "De Quervain's tenosynovitis", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/de-quervains-tendinosis/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/de-quervain-tenosynovitis/", "relatedTerms": [ "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "dequervain-self-test-limitations" ] }, { "slug": "cubital-tunnel-syndrome", "englishName": "Cubital tunnel syndrome", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Cubital tunnel syndrome", "aliases": [ "Cubital tunnel syndrome", "Ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow", "Ulnar neuropathy", "Cell phone elbow" ], "definition": "Ulnar nerve compression or irritation at the elbow causing sensory or motor symptoms.", "clinical": "With ulnar nerve compression at the elbow, avoiding prolonged deep bending and pressure may help. A clinician may suggest a night splint. Persistent numbness, weakness or muscle wasting needs prompt assessment.", "clarification": "Little-finger numbness can originate elsewhere.", "symptoms": [ "Little and ulnar ring-finger tingling, sometimes weak grip" ], "causes": [ "Prolonged elbow flexion, pressure or local anatomy" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and selected nerve conduction or EMG tests" ], "treatments": [ "Reduce bending and pressure, splinting; assess decompression for significant deficits" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Adjust training to nerve recovery and hand function" } ], "redFlags": [ "Wasting or progressive weakness needs prompt specialist review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-08", "updatedAt": "2026-10-08", "sources": [ { "title": "Cubital tunnel syndrome", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/ulnar-nerve-entrapment-at-the-elbow/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/cubital-tunnel-syndrome/", "relatedTerms": [ "tfcc-injury", "de-quervain-tenosynovitis" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "cubital-tunnel-night-elbow-position", "cubital-tunnel-progressive-weakness" ] }, { "slug": "mortons-neuroma", "englishName": "Morton's neuroma", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Morton's neuroma", "aliases": [ "Morton's neuroma", "Intermetatarsal neuroma", "Plantar neuroma", "Morton metatarsalgia" ], "definition": "Thickening around a forefoot interdigital nerve, commonly between the third and fourth toes.", "clinical": "A wider toe box and lower heel reduce forefoot and interdigital nerve pressure. A correctly positioned metatarsal pad may help. Persistent pain or numbness needs reassessment; footwear changes do not work for everyone.", "clarification": "Despite the name, this usually is not a true tumor.", "symptoms": [ "Burning forefoot pain, toe numbness or a pebble sensation" ], "causes": [ "Repeated forefoot pressure and nerve irritation" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination; imaging to assess alternatives when needed" ], "treatments": [ "Wide shoes and metatarsal pads; consider injection or surgery for persistent symptoms" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Rebuild walking and running after reducing forefoot pressure" } ], "redFlags": [ "Persistent sensory loss or a new mass needs review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-08", "updatedAt": "2026-10-08", "sources": [ { "title": "Morton's neuroma", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/mortons-neuroma/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/mortons-neuroma/", "relatedTerms": [ "plantar-fasciitis" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "morton-neuroma-shoe-width" ] }, { "slug": "tarsal-tunnel-syndrome", "englishName": "Tarsal tunnel syndrome", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Tarsal tunnel syndrome", "aliases": [ "Tarsal tunnel syndrome", "Posterior tibial nerve entrapment", "Tarsal canal syndrome" ], "definition": "Symptoms caused by tibial nerve or branch compression in the medial ankle tunnel.", "clinical": "No. Symptoms, medial ankle examination and alternative nerve or spinal causes must be considered. Ultrasound or MRI may help identify compression. A single test cannot establish or exclude every case.", "clarification": "Burning soles also require assessment for other neuropathies.", "symptoms": [ "Plantar burning, tingling or numbness" ], "causes": [ "Masses, swelling or mechanical factors" ], "diagnostics": [ "Neurological examination; selected electrical tests and imaging" ], "treatments": [ "Modify load and compression; assess surgery for persistent symptoms or a mass" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Progress activity by sensation, strength and walking tolerance" } ], "redFlags": [ "Increasing foot weakness or persistent sensory loss needs assessment" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-08", "updatedAt": "2026-10-08", "sources": [ { "title": "Tarsal tunnel syndrome", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22200-tarsal-tunnel-syndrome" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/tarsal-tunnel-syndrome/", "relatedTerms": [ "plantar-fasciitis", "mortons-neuroma" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "tarsal-tunnel-normal-nerve-test" ] }, { "slug": "chronic-exertional-compartment-syndrome", "englishName": "Chronic exertional compartment syndrome", "abbreviation": "CECS", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Chronic exertional compartment syndrome", "aliases": [ "Chronic exertional compartment syndrome", "CECS", "Exertional compartment syndrome", "Compartment syndrome of the leg" ], "definition": "Recurring exercise pain and tightness associated with elevated muscle-compartment pressure.", "clinical": "Do not assume so. Worsening severe pain, tightness, numbness or weakness requires emergency assessment for acute compartment syndrome and other emergencies. A palpable foot pulse does not exclude dangerous pressure.", "clarification": "Acute persistent severe pain needs a separate emergency assessment.", "symptoms": [ "Predictable exertional tightness, often relieved by rest" ], "causes": [ "Exercise muscle expansion within a constrained compartment" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination around exercise; pressure testing when indicated and exclusion of alternatives" ], "treatments": [ "Training changes; consider fasciotomy for confirmed, limiting cases" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Rebuild exercise tolerance according to symptoms and treatment" } ], "redFlags": [ "Severe pain persisting at rest, numbness or weakness needs emergency care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-15", "updatedAt": "2026-10-15", "sources": [ { "title": "Chronic exertional compartment syndrome", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15315-compartment-syndrome" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/chronic-exertional-compartment-syndrome/", "relatedTerms": [ "stress-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "exertional-compartment-persistent-pain" ] }, { "slug": "iliotibial-band-syndrome", "englishName": "Iliotibial band syndrome", "abbreviation": "ITBS", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Iliotibial band syndrome", "aliases": [ "Iliotibial band syndrome", "ITBS", "IT band friction syndrome", "Runner's knee" ], "definition": "Activity-related lateral knee pain associated with irritation around the iliotibial band.", "clinical": "Usually not. Adjust running volume and painful hills, and assess hip strength and movement before progressively rebuilding running. Rolling may ease discomfort temporarily but cannot replace load management; avoid aggressive pressure on painful areas.", "clarification": "Meniscal and other causes of lateral pain need consideration.", "symptoms": [ "Lateral knee pain with running or repeated bending" ], "causes": [ "Repetitive loading and training changes" ], "diagnostics": [ "Tenderness, provoking movements and load assessment" ], "treatments": [ "Load adjustment with hip strength and movement training" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Build running from tolerable short, level sessions" } ], "redFlags": [ "Traumatic locking, marked swelling or inability to bear weight needs review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-15", "updatedAt": "2026-10-15", "sources": [ { "title": "Iliotibial band syndrome", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21967-iliotibial-band-syndrome" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/iliotibial-band-syndrome/", "relatedTerms": [ "patellofemoral-pain" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "it-band-foam-rolling-alone" ] }, { "slug": "calcific-rotator-cuff-tendinopathy", "englishName": "Calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy", "aliases": [ "Calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy", "Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder", "Calcifying tendinitis", "Supraspinatus calcification" ], "definition": "Calcium deposits in rotator cuff tendons, which may be silent or cause substantial pain.", "clinical": "No. Size and symptoms do not consistently match, and resorption can be painful. Asymptomatic deposits usually need no treatment. Symptoms, motion and examination should guide care rather than deposit size alone.", "clarification": "A calcium deposit alone does not determine surgery.", "symptoms": [ "Shoulder pain, night pain or restricted motion" ], "causes": [ "Deposition and resorption; the exact cause is incompletely understood" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination, X-ray or ultrasound correlated with symptoms" ], "treatments": [ "Start with pain care, load modification and rehabilitation; assess other options if persistent" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Restore motion and strength progressively as pain settles" } ], "redFlags": [ "Redness with fever or sudden post-traumatic weakness needs assessment" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-15", "updatedAt": "2026-10-15", "sources": [ { "title": "Calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy", "organization": "Cleveland Clinic", "url": "https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21638-calcific-tendonitis" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/calcific-rotator-cuff-tendinopathy/", "relatedTerms": [ "rotator-cuff", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "calcific-tendonitis-deposit-size-pain" ] }, { "slug": "bakers-cyst", "englishName": "Baker's cyst", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Baker's cyst", "aliases": [ "Baker's cyst", "Popliteal cyst", "Knee cyst", "Baker cyst" ], "definition": "A fluid-filled swelling behind the knee, often associated with intra-articular disease in adults.", "clinical": "No. A ruptured cyst and deep vein thrombosis can look similar and need prompt assessment, often ultrasound. Chest pain, breathlessness or fainting requires emergency help. Avoid massage or continued exercise.", "clarification": "Recurrence after aspiration may reflect persistent joint fluid production.", "symptoms": [ "Posterior fullness or movement discomfort; sometimes no symptoms" ], "causes": [ "Excess joint fluid, often with arthritis or meniscal disease" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and ultrasound; MRI for intra-articular issues if needed" ], "treatments": [ "Observe or treat underlying disease; selective aspiration or other treatment" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Restore motion and strength according to knee symptoms" } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden calf pain and swelling need prompt exclusion of thrombosis" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-15", "updatedAt": "2026-10-15", "sources": [ { "title": "Baker's cyst", "organization": "AAOS", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/bakers-cyst-popliteal-cyst/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/bakers-cyst/", "relatedTerms": [ "meniscus", "articular-cartilage" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "baker-cyst-rupture-dvt-differential" ] }, { "slug": "sport-related-concussion", "englishName": "Sport-related concussion", "abbreviation": "SRC", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Sport-related concussion", "aliases": [ "Sport-related concussion", "SRC", "Sports concussion", "Athletic concussion", "Mild traumatic brain injury in sports" ], "definition": "Traumatic brain dysfunction after force to the head or body transmits to the brain during sport.", "clinical": "Prolonged strict rest is generally discouraged. After 24–48 hours of relative rest, gradually resume daily activity and light aerobic exercise as tolerated. Avoid collision and fall risks; contact sport requires staged assessment and clearance.", "clarification": "Loss of consciousness and abnormal routine imaging are not required.", "symptoms": [ "Headache, dizziness, attention or balance disturbance" ], "causes": [ "Acceleration-deceleration forces from head, neck or body impact" ], "diagnostics": [ "Multidomain clinical assessment; imaging to exclude more serious injury" ], "treatments": [ "Immediate removal and assessment, then relative rest and progressive activity" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Progressive rehabilitation", "description": "Gradual learning and exercise; medical clearance for contact risk" } ], "redFlags": [ "Worsening headache, repeated vomiting, seizures or altered consciousness need emergency care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-15", "updatedAt": "2026-10-15", "sources": [ { "title": "Sport-related concussion", "organization": "BJSM", "url": "https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/11/695" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/sport-related-concussion/", "relatedTerms": [ "proprioception" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "concussion-relative-rest-light-activity", "concussion-school-before-contact-sport" ] }, { "slug": "slap-lesion", "englishName": "Superior labral anterior-to-posterior lesion", "abbreviation": "SLAP", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "SLAP lesion", "aliases": [ "Superior labral tear", "Superior labrum anterior posterior tear", "Superior labral anterior-to-posterior lesion", "SLAP" ], "definition": "Injury of the superior shoulder labrum around the long-head biceps attachment; patterns range from fraying to unstable detachment.", "clinical": "Interpret trauma, throwing load, age and associated cuff disease together. Load modification, mobility and scapular-cuff rehabilitation generally precede surgery. Persistent disability may prompt discussion of debridement, repair or biceps tenodesis.", "clarification": "An MRI tear need not cause the pain. A trial in selected isolated type II lesions does not justify routine surgery or settle every athlete's case.", "symptoms": [ "Deep pain with overhead activity and reduced performance", "Clicking or catching, which are not specific" ], "causes": [ "A fall or sudden arm traction", "Repetitive throwing and age-related degeneration" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examine motion, cuff strength and scapular control; no single maneuver establishes diagnosis", "Selected MRI or MR arthrography interpreted clinically" ], "treatments": [ "Modify provoking loads and progressively strengthen; appropriate analgesia", "Select surgery after unsuccessful rehabilitation according to tissue, stability and goals" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protection", "description": "Control symptoms; protect the labrum and biceps attachment after repair" }, { "phase": "Recovery", "description": "Restore motion and endurance; resisted elbow flexion follows the procedure-specific plan" }, { "phase": "Sport", "description": "Progress throwing after strength, control and load tolerance assessment" } ], "redFlags": [ "Traumatic deformity, coldness or persistent numbness needs urgent care", "New marked weakness or restricted motion warrants review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-20", "updatedAt": "2026-10-20", "sources": [ { "title": "SLAP Tears in the Shoulder", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/slap-tears/" }, { "title": "Sham surgery versus labral repair or biceps tenodesis for type II SLAP lesions: randomised trial (2017)", "organization": "British Journal of Sports Medicine", "url": "https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-097098" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/slap-lesion/", "relatedTerms": [ "glenoid-labrum", "proximal-biceps-tendon-tear" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "slap-imaging-surgery-decision" ] }, { "slug": "acromioclavicular-joint-separation", "englishName": "Acromioclavicular joint separation", "abbreviation": "AC", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "AC joint separation", "aliases": [ "Acromioclavicular dislocation", "Separated shoulder", "Acromioclavicular joint separation", "AC" ], "definition": "Ligament injury destabilizing the joint between distal clavicle and acromion; severe cases involve coracoclavicular ligaments. It differs from glenohumeral dislocation.", "clinical": "Assess vertical and horizontal instability, skin and scapular function. Lower grades and many type III injuries start nonsurgically. Severe displacement or persistent disability may warrant reconstruction tailored to activity.", "clarification": "Better radiographic alignment does not guarantee better function. Type III decisions must also consider complications and rehabilitation.", "symptoms": [ "Top-of-shoulder pain, swelling and prominence", "Pain across the chest, with straps or pushing" ], "causes": [ "Direct fall onto the shoulder", "Contact trauma loading the AC and CC ligaments" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and comparative radiographs showing displacement", "Additional imaging when fracture or other injury is suspected" ], "treatments": [ "Short-term sling, pain control and progressive motion", "Consider surgery for severe or persistently symptomatic instability" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protection", "description": "Reduce pain, keep elbow-wrist motion and avoid pressure" }, { "phase": "Recovery", "description": "Restore shoulder motion and cuff-scapular strength" }, { "phase": "Sport", "description": "Assess symptoms, strength, control and contact tolerance" } ], "redFlags": [ "Tented skin, open injury or neurovascular changes need emergency assessment", "Persistent scapular dysfunction or functional loss needs review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-20", "updatedAt": "2026-10-20", "sources": [ { "title": "Shoulder Separation", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/shoulder-separation/" }, { "title": "Surgical Versus Nonsurgical Treatment for Acute Rockwood Type 3 Acromioclavicular Injury: Randomized Trial (2023)", "organization": "Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine", "url": "https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10467399/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/acromioclavicular-joint-separation/", "relatedTerms": [ "shoulder-dislocation", "rotator-cuff" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "ac-joint-type-three-rehab-first" ] }, { "slug": "distal-biceps-tendon-rupture", "englishName": "Distal biceps tendon rupture", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Distal biceps tendon rupture", "aliases": [ "Distal biceps tear", "Elbow biceps rupture", "Distal biceps tendon rupture" ], "definition": "Partial or complete disruption of the tendon attaching biceps to the radial tuberosity, affecting supination and elbow-flexion strength.", "clinical": "Complete tears generally do not reattach to their original footprint spontaneously. Repair is often considered for high functional demands; nonoperative care can suit lower demands or greater surgical risk, accepting weakness. Early assessment preserves options.", "clarification": "Preserved flexion or reduced pain does not exclude complete rupture. Proximal and distal tears have different consequences.", "symptoms": [ "Anterior elbow pop, bruising, swelling or changed contour", "Weak supination and reduced lifting endurance" ], "causes": [ "Sudden forced extension against resistance", "Smoking and certain drug exposures may increase risk" ], "diagnostics": [ "Clinician assessment of continuity, Hook test and supination", "Ultrasound or MRI for uncertain/partial tears; radiographs for bone injury" ], "treatments": [ "Protection and rehabilitation for selected partial tears", "Discuss repair for complete tears and risks such as nerve injury or stiffness" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protection", "description": "Brace as directed; avoid resisted flexion and supination" }, { "phase": "Recovery", "description": "Progress motion before strengthening under clearance" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Assess strength, endurance and task loading; recovery commonly takes months" } ], "redFlags": [ "New substantial supination weakness warrants prompt assessment", "Cold, pale fingers or increasing numbness need urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-20", "updatedAt": "2026-10-20", "sources": [ { "title": "Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/biceps-tendon-tear-at-the-elbow/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/distal-biceps-tendon-rupture/", "relatedTerms": [ "proximal-biceps-tendon-tear", "cubital-tunnel-syndrome" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "distal-biceps-preserved-flexion", "distal-biceps-repair-resisted-curls" ] }, { "slug": "distal-triceps-tendon-rupture", "englishName": "Distal triceps tendon rupture", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Distal triceps tendon rupture", "aliases": [ "Triceps tendon tear", "Elbow extensor tendon rupture", "Distal triceps tendon rupture" ], "definition": "Partial or complete tearing where triceps attaches to the olecranon, impairing elbow extension and pushing.", "clinical": "Management depends on extension function and tear extent. Selected partial tears with useful strength may receive bracing and rehabilitation; complete tears or major deficits often prompt repair. Tissue quality and systemic disease influence planning.", "clarification": "Some extension can remain through intact fibers. Do not use push-ups to rule out a tear.", "symptoms": [ "Posterior elbow pain, swelling and bruising", "Weak extension or difficulty pushing up from a chair" ], "causes": [ "Fall onto the hand or forceful eccentric load", "Direct impact, degeneration or systemic risk factors" ], "diagnostics": [ "Assess tendon gap and extension against gravity", "Radiographs for avulsion; ultrasound or MRI for extent" ], "treatments": [ "Protection, suitable analgesia and load restriction", "Individualized repair discussion including rerupture and stiffness" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protection", "description": "Brace and flexion limits follow repair; avoid resisted extension" }, { "phase": "Recovery", "description": "Controlled motion before graded strengthening" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Restore extension strength and task-specific pushing tolerance" } ], "redFlags": [ "New loss of active extension needs prompt assessment", "Open injury, cold fingers or increasing numbness needs urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-20", "updatedAt": "2026-10-20", "sources": [ { "title": "Triceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/triceps-tendon-tear-at-the-elbow/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/distal-triceps-tendon-rupture/", "relatedTerms": [ "distal-biceps-tendon-rupture", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "triceps-partial-tear-pushup-risk" ] }, { "slug": "mallet-finger", "englishName": "Mallet finger", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Mallet finger", "aliases": [ "Baseball finger", "Terminal extensor tendon injury", "Mallet finger" ], "definition": "Disruption of the terminal extensor attachment, sometimes with a bone fragment, causing loss of active distal interphalangeal extension.", "clinical": "Most closed, aligned injuries use continuous extension splinting, often 6–8 weeks or longer before supervised weaning. Subluxation, displaced fragments, open injury or failed splinting may require surgery.", "clarification": "Consistency and fit matter; accidental bending may disrupt healing. Mild residual lag need not impair function.", "symptoms": [ "Drooping fingertip that cannot actively straighten", "Dorsal pain, swelling or bruising" ], "causes": [ "Forced flexion of an extended fingertip", "Minor sudden loading or a laceration" ], "diagnostics": [ "Assess active/passive extension and skin", "Radiographs evaluate fragment, displacement and joint alignment" ], "treatments": [ "Keep the distal joint extended while other joints move", "Support the tip during cleaning; avoid pressure injury or excessive extension" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Splint", "description": "Maintain prescribed position and inspect skin" }, { "phase": "Motion", "description": "Gentle movement after stability review; night protection if directed" }, { "phase": "Sport", "description": "Plan protection according to healing, function and impact risk" } ], "redFlags": [ "Open or nail-bed injury, pallor or coldness needs timely care", "Increasing droop, pressure sores or proximal hyperextension needs review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-20", "updatedAt": "2026-10-20", "sources": [ { "title": "Mallet Finger (Baseball Finger)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/mallet-finger-baseball-finger/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/mallet-finger/", "relatedTerms": [ "jersey-finger", "thumb-ulnar-collateral-ligament-injury" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "mallet-finger-splint-hygiene", "mallet-finger-residual-lag-function" ] }, { "slug": "jersey-finger", "englishName": "Jersey finger", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Jersey finger", "aliases": [ "Flexor digitorum profundus avulsion", "Rugby finger", "Jersey finger" ], "definition": "Avulsion of the deep flexor tendon from the distal phalanx, with or without bone, eliminating active fingertip flexion.", "clinical": "Often follows forced straightening while gripping a jersey, especially the ring finger. Prompt hand referral is important: retraction, blood supply and bone involvement determine timing and repair. Acute high-demand cases commonly undergo surgery.", "clarification": "Other joints may still bend and radiographs may be normal. Delay can lead to retraction and adhesions, complicating reconstruction.", "symptoms": [ "Inability to actively bend the fingertip and weak grip", "Volar pain, swelling or a palpable retracted tendon" ], "causes": [ "Forced extension during active gripping", "Strong traction during sport" ], "diagnostics": [ "Isolated distal flexion examination", "Radiographs for bone; ultrasound or MRI for retraction when needed" ], "treatments": [ "Protect, stop forceful gripping and refer promptly", "Tendon repair or fragment fixation by injury type; discuss compensation if surgery is unsuitable" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protection", "description": "Postoperative protective orthosis" }, { "phase": "Gliding", "description": "Therapist-led controlled motion balances adhesions against rerupture" }, { "phase": "Strength", "description": "Progress grip after clearance; heavy loading often requires months" } ], "redFlags": [ "New loss of fingertip flexion needs prompt specialist review", "Open wounds, cold pale fingertips or sensory changes need urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-24", "updatedAt": "2026-10-24", "sources": [ { "title": "Jersey Finger", "organization": "American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH)", "url": "https://assh.my.site.com/handcare/condition/jersey-finger" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/jersey-finger/", "relatedTerms": [ "mallet-finger", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "jersey-finger-normal-xray" ] }, { "slug": "thumb-ulnar-collateral-ligament-injury", "englishName": "Thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury", "abbreviation": "UCL", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Thumb UCL injury", "aliases": [ "Skier's thumb", "Gamekeeper's thumb", "Thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury", "UCL" ], "definition": "Sprain or rupture of the ulnar stabilizing ligament at the thumb MCP joint, impairing pinch. A displaced complete tear may form a Stener lesion.", "clinical": "Stability, avulsion displacement and aponeurotic interposition guide care. Stable partial injuries often use a thumb-spica splint; gross instability, a Stener lesion or unstable bone fragment commonly prompts repair assessment.", "clarification": "Skiing is only one mechanism. Ball sports and falls also cause injury; avoid repeated self-stress testing.", "symptoms": [ "Ulnar thumb-base pain, swelling or bruising", "Weak pinch or instability" ], "causes": [ "Forced thumb abduction", "Ski-pole traction, a fall or ball impact" ], "diagnostics": [ "Clinician stress examination and bone tenderness", "Radiographs; ultrasound or MRI for displacement when needed" ], "treatments": [ "Splint and activity modification for stable partial injuries", "Repair or reconstruction according to instability, tissue and chronicity" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protect", "description": "Limit sideways MCP stress and inspect skin" }, { "phase": "Move", "description": "Resume motion and graded pinch after review" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Restore stability, pinch strength and sport control" } ], "redFlags": [ "Deformity, wounds or a cold fingertip require urgent care", "Persistent weak pinch or instability needs specialist review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-24", "updatedAt": "2026-10-24", "sources": [ { "title": "Sprained Thumb", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/sprained-thumb/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/thumb-ulnar-collateral-ligament-injury/", "relatedTerms": [ "mallet-finger", "jersey-finger" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "thumb-ucl-stener-lesion" ] }, { "slug": "peroneal-tendon-instability", "englishName": "Peroneal tendon instability", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Peroneal tendon instability", "aliases": [ "Peroneal subluxation", "Peroneal dislocation", "Peroneal tendon instability" ], "definition": "Abnormal movement of the peroneal tendons within or out of the groove behind the lateral malleolus, often involving the superior retinaculum.", "clinical": "Distinguish acute, recurrent and intrasheath patterns, and assess tears or ligament injury. Selected acute non-athlete cases may try immobilization with recurrence counseling; athletes and chronic symptomatic cases often discuss stabilization.", "clarification": "Normal static MRI cannot exclude dynamic displacement. Painless noise alone differs from symptomatic instability.", "symptoms": [ "Posterolateral snapping, pain or swelling", "Instability with cutting or eversion weakness" ], "causes": [ "Forceful contraction with dorsiflexion and eversion", "Retinacular injury and anatomical crowding or groove factors" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examination and dynamic ultrasound", "MRI for tendons/retinaculum; radiographs for fractures" ], "treatments": [ "Selected immobilization followed by strength and balance work", "Retinacular repair, tendon treatment or groove work as appropriate" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protect", "description": "Avoid snapping maneuvers; loading follows the treatment plan" }, { "phase": "Recover", "description": "Restore motion, eversion strength and balance after clearance" }, { "phase": "Sport", "description": "Progress running and cutting without painful recurrent snapping" } ], "redFlags": [ "Persistent post-traumatic displacement needs prompt review", "Coldness, numbness, deformity or inability to bear weight warrants care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-24", "updatedAt": "2026-10-24", "sources": [ { "title": "Peroneal Tendon Injuries", "organization": "American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)", "url": "https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/peroneal-tendon-injuries" }, { "title": "The ESSKA-AFAS international consensus statement on peroneal tendon pathologies (2018)", "organization": "ESSKA-AFAS / Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy", "url": "https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6154028/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/peroneal-tendon-instability/", "relatedTerms": [ "ankle-sprain", "ankle-syndesmosis-injury" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "peroneal-subluxation-dynamic-ultrasound" ] }, { "slug": "osteochondral-lesion-of-talus", "englishName": "Osteochondral lesion of the talus", "abbreviation": "OLT", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Osteochondral lesion of the talus", "aliases": [ "Talar dome lesion", "Talar osteochondral defect", "Osteochondral lesion of the talus", "OLT" ], "definition": "Focal injury of talar articular cartilage and underlying bone, sometimes with a fragment, subchondral cyst or marrow edema.", "clinical": "Symptoms, depth, stability, ankle instability and alignment guide care. Stable mildly symptomatic lesions may start with load reduction, bracing and rehabilitation. Displaced fragments, locking or persistent symptoms warrant surgical assessment.", "clarification": "Area alone cannot select microfracture, fixation or transplantation. Techniques have different indications and evidence; pain or degeneration may persist.", "symptoms": [ "Deep weight-bearing ankle pain and recurrent swelling", "Catching, locking or lasting post-exercise discomfort" ], "causes": [ "Ankle sprain or fracture", "Repeated microtrauma; sometimes no clear cause" ], "diagnostics": [ "Examine stability, alignment and motion; X-rays can miss lesions", "MRI assesses cartilage/marrow; CT characterizes bone and cysts" ], "treatments": [ "Protected loading with strength and balance work", "Select fixation, marrow stimulation or grafting by fragment, depth and prior treatment" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Unload", "description": "Protect the surface according to symptoms or surgery" }, { "phase": "Recover", "description": "Progress motion and strength; loading is procedure-specific" }, { "phase": "Sport", "description": "Assess swelling, strength and impact tolerance before running/jumping" } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden locking, inability to bear weight or worsening needs review", "Fever with redness or neurovascular changes needs urgent care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-24", "updatedAt": "2026-10-24", "sources": [ { "title": "Talar Dome Lesion", "organization": "American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)", "url": "https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/talar-dome-lesion" }, { "title": "Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: Diagnosis and Conservative Management, 2023 Recommendations", "organization": "DGOU / Cartilage", "url": "https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10601568/" }, { "title": "Operative management of osteochondral lesions of the talus: 2024 recommendations", "organization": "DGOU / EFORT Open Reviews", "url": "https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10958247/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/osteochondral-lesion-of-talus/", "relatedTerms": [ "articular-cartilage", "ankle-sprain", "arthroscopy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "talar-lesion-size-not-only-factor" ] }, { "slug": "jones-fracture", "englishName": "Jones fracture", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Jones fracture", "aliases": [ "Zone 2 fifth metatarsal fracture", "Proximal fifth metatarsal fracture", "Jones fracture" ], "definition": "A fracture at the proximal fifth-metatarsal metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction, typically reaching the fourth-fifth intermetatarsal articulation; distinct from a tuberosity avulsion.", "clinical": "Local blood supply raises concern for delayed union. Acuity, displacement, prior stress pain and activity demands guide protected non-weight-bearing care versus fixation. Athletes or nonunion cases more often consider surgery.", "clarification": "Not every proximal fifth-metatarsal fracture is a Jones fracture. A screw or pain relief does not prove readiness for impact.", "symptoms": [ "Focal lateral foot tenderness, swelling or bruising", "Weight-bearing pain, sometimes preceded by stress pain" ], "causes": [ "Adduction/twisting or lateral loading", "Repeated running/jumping and mechanical factors" ], "diagnostics": [ "Radiographs for zone, displacement and sclerosis", "Selected MRI for occult stress injury or CT for union" ], "treatments": [ "Cast/boot, prescribed loading restriction and follow-up", "Risk-based fixation; assess bone health and grafting options for delayed union" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protect", "description": "Restrict loading and impact by stability" }, { "phase": "Recover", "description": "Restore gait, calf strength and balance when healing permits" }, { "phase": "Impact", "description": "Use imaging, tenderness and graded response; monitor refracture risk" } ], "redFlags": [ "Deformity, wounds, coldness or numbness require urgent care", "Recurrent local pain requires stopping impact and review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-24", "updatedAt": "2026-10-24", "sources": [ { "title": "Jones Fracture", "organization": "American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS)", "url": "https://www.footcaremd.org/foot-and-ankle-conditions/midfoot/jones-fracture" }, { "title": "Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal", "organization": "American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)", "url": "https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/fractures-of-the-fifth-metatarsal" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/jones-fracture/", "relatedTerms": [ "stress-fracture", "lisfranc-injury" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "fifth-metatarsal-avulsion-versus-jones", "jones-fracture-painfree-not-union" ] }, { "slug": "accessory-navicular-syndrome", "englishName": "Accessory navicular syndrome", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Accessory navicular syndrome", "aliases": [ "Symptomatic accessory navicular", "Painful os naviculare accessorium", "Accessory navicular syndrome" ], "definition": "Pain around an accessory bone beside the medial navicular, its connection or the posterior tibial tendon; a symptomatic anatomical variant.", "clinical": "Many accessory bones never need treatment. Confirm tenderness, arch mechanics and tendon function. Reduce shoe pressure and load first; selected patients need short immobilization. Persistent disability may prompt excision with tendon management.", "clarification": "A low arch alone is not a surgical indication. An accessory bone on X-ray may not explain all pain.", "symptoms": [ "Tender medial prominence, redness or shoe irritation", "Exercise aching, sometimes with a low arch" ], "causes": [ "Footwear pressure, overload or sprain", "Irritation of the connection and posterior tibial tendon" ], "diagnostics": [ "Standing alignment, gait, heel rise and tendon examination", "Radiographs; selected MRI for persistent unexplained pain" ], "treatments": [ "Load/shoe modification, appropriate arch support and selected immobilization", "Surgery after unsuccessful conservative care; assess alignment too" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Settle", "description": "Reduce rubbing and impact, maintain comfortable activity" }, { "phase": "Rebuild", "description": "Restore foot-ankle strength, heel rises and balance" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Progress after walking/single-leg tolerance; protect tendon procedures" } ], "redFlags": [ "Inability to bear weight or severe post-traumatic bone pain needs fracture assessment", "Fever with redness or sensory/circulatory changes warrants care" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-28", "updatedAt": "2026-10-28", "sources": [ { "title": "Accessory Navicular Syndrome", "organization": "American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)", "url": "https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/accessory-navicular-syndrome-(1)" }, { "title": "Accessory navicular", "organization": "The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids)", "url": "https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/accessory-navicular" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/accessory-navicular-syndrome/", "relatedTerms": [ "plantar-fasciitis", "tarsal-coalition" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "accessory-navicular-asymptomatic" ] }, { "slug": "tarsal-coalition", "englishName": "Tarsal coalition", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Tarsal coalition", "aliases": [ "Tarsal fusion", "Congenital tarsal bridge", "Tarsal coalition" ], "definition": "An abnormal bony, cartilaginous or fibrous connection between tarsal bones, commonly calcaneonavicular or talocalcaneal, restricting hindfoot movement.", "clinical": "Some are asymptomatic; pain often emerges during growth. Observe painless cases. Symptomatic cases usually start with activity changes, support or temporary immobilization. Persistent pain may warrant resection or fusion according to extent, arthritis and alignment.", "clarification": "Rigid and flexible flatfoot differ. Forceful stretching cannot remove the bridge; surgery must match the anatomy.", "symptoms": [ "Deep foot-ankle pain and restricted hindfoot motion", "Rigid flatfoot, fatigue or repeated sprains" ], "causes": [ "Usually developmental failure of bone separation", "Symptoms may follow growth, loading or injury" ], "diagnostics": [ "Arch, heel-rise and subtalar motion assessment", "Radiographs; CT for bone extent, MRI for nonosseous connections" ], "treatments": [ "No treatment for asymptomatic findings; load reduction, orthoses or immobilization for pain", "Selected resection after failed care; fusion for appropriate advanced disease" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Settle", "description": "Reduce provoking loads while retaining tolerable activity" }, { "phase": "Rehabilitate", "description": "Restore strength/balance after immobilization without forcing structural limits" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Progress by walking and sport tolerance; postoperative loading follows procedure" } ], "redFlags": [ "New inability to bear weight after trauma needs fracture assessment", "Worsening pain, fever or numbness warrants review" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-28", "updatedAt": "2026-10-28", "sources": [ { "title": "Tarsal Coalition", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/tarsal-coalition/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/tarsal-coalition/", "relatedTerms": [ "accessory-navicular-syndrome", "ankle-sprain" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "tarsal-coalition-rigid-flatfoot" ] }, { "slug": "hallux-rigidus", "englishName": "Hallux rigidus", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Hallux rigidus", "aliases": [ "Stiff big toe", "First MTP osteoarthritis", "Hallux rigidus" ], "definition": "Degeneration of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with cartilage loss, osteophytes and restricted motion, often painful during toe extension and push-off.", "clinical": "Symptoms, remaining motion and wear guide care. Wide, stiff or rocker-soled footwear, inserts and suitable analgesia may reduce stress. Persistent early dorsal impingement may suit cheilectomy; advanced arthritis may warrant fusion.", "clarification": "Fusion relieves pain at the cost of joint motion. Replacement has implant and revision risks. Procedure selection must reflect individual priorities.", "symptoms": [ "Pain/stiffness with push-off, hills or squatting", "Dorsal prominence rubbing shoes and loss of motion" ], "causes": [ "Degeneration or previous articular trauma", "Anatomical, mechanical and familial factors" ], "diagnostics": [ "Assess painful arc and remaining motion", "Standing radiographs; acute hot swelling requires gout/infection consideration" ], "treatments": [ "Footwear and load modification with appropriate pain relief", "Joint-preserving surgery or fusion according to wear and goals" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Nonsurgical", "description": "Lower-irritation exercise and adjacent muscle strength" }, { "phase": "Postoperative", "description": "Cheilectomy and fusion differ; loading follows healing" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Restore gait adaptations and endurance before sport assessment" } ], "redFlags": [ "Sudden hot red swelling with fever needs prompt care", "Wound drainage, coldness or altered sensation needs assessment" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-28", "updatedAt": "2026-10-28", "sources": [ { "title": "Hallux Rigidus (Stiff Big Toe)", "organization": "American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)", "url": "https://www.orthoinfo.org/diseases--conditions/stiff-big-toe-hallux-rigidus/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/hallux-rigidus/", "relatedTerms": [ "articular-cartilage", "jones-fracture" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "hallux-rigidus-fusion-sport" ] }, { "slug": "meniscal-root-tear", "englishName": "Meniscal root tear", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Meniscal root tear", "aliases": [ "Posterior meniscal root injury", "Meniscal root avulsion", "Meniscal root tear" ], "definition": "Avulsion of a meniscal bony attachment or an adjacent radial tear, disrupting hoop-load transmission and potentially causing extrusion and elevated contact pressure.", "clinical": "Medial posterior tears often have a degenerative background; lateral tears may accompany ACL injury. Symptoms, cartilage, arthritis, alignment and rehabilitation capacity guide treatment. Preserved joints may suit repair; marked varus or advanced wear may require alternatives.", "clarification": "Age or MRI alone cannot decide surgery. Repair does not guarantee prevention of arthritis, and asymptomatic cases remain debated.", "symptoms": [ "Medial/posterior weight-bearing or squat pain", "A pop, effusion or reduced function; presentations vary" ], "causes": [ "Deep-flexion loading and degeneration", "Twisting trauma, sometimes with cruciate injury" ], "diagnostics": [ "MRI for root, extrusion and cartilage plus examination", "Standing radiographs for wear; long-leg alignment imaging when needed" ], "treatments": [ "Selected load management, strengthening and pain relief", "Root fixation, alignment correction or arthritis treatment as appropriate" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Protect", "description": "After repair limit loading and deep flexion by protocol" }, { "phase": "Recover", "description": "Restore gait, motion and quadriceps control" }, { "phase": "Sport", "description": "Combine healing, effusion, strength and function rather than weeks alone" } ], "redFlags": [ "Locking, inability to bear weight or worsening pain needs review", "Postoperative fever, drainage or sudden calf swelling warrants prompt assessment" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-28", "updatedAt": "2026-10-28", "sources": [ { "title": "International Delphi Consensus on Medial Meniscal Root Tears (2025)", "organization": "Arthroscopy", "url": "https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arthro.2025.06.028" }, { "title": "Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Lateral Meniscal Lesions (2022)", "organization": "Chinese Society of Sports Medicine / Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine", "url": "https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9747892/" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/meniscal-root-tear/", "relatedTerms": [ "meniscus", "articular-cartilage", "anterior-cruciate-ligament" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "meniscus-root-repair-cartilage-alignment", "meniscus-root-repair-deep-squat" ] }, { "slug": "relative-energy-deficiency-in-sport", "englishName": "Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport", "abbreviation": "REDs", "category": "condition", "categoryLabel": "Injuries & conditions", "name": "Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport", "aliases": [ "RED-S", "Relative energy deficiency syndrome", "Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport", "REDs" ], "definition": "Impaired health and performance from prolonged or severe low energy availability, affecting bone, reproduction, metabolism, immunity and psychological health across sexes and body sizes.", "clinical": "Too little energy remains for physiology after exercise expenditure. A physician, sports dietitian and mental-health support when needed assess causes and restore fueling while adjusting training. Exclude alternative diagnoses; weight or a single test is insufficient.", "clarification": "Normal weight or temporarily good performance does not exclude REDs. Hormone-related bleeding does not establish natural cycle or energy recovery.", "symptoms": [ "Persistent fatigue, poor recovery, recurrent injury or declining performance", "Bone stress injuries, menstrual changes, low libido or eating/mood concerns" ], "causes": [ "Intake failing to match training, sometimes unintentionally", "Restriction, weight pressure or eating disorders" ], "diagnostics": [ "Diet/training and reproductive history, examination and selected blood tests", "Risk-based bone assessment; IOC REDs CAT2 requires clinical expertise" ], "treatments": [ "Individualized fueling, training changes and correction of deficiencies", "Multidisciplinary care for eating disorders/high risk, with training restriction when needed" ], "rehabPhases": [ { "phase": "Stabilize", "description": "Address medical risk and establish sufficient regular intake" }, { "phase": "Recover", "description": "Monitor symptoms, hormones and bone; timelines differ" }, { "phase": "Return", "description": "Progress by clinical risk and response, not weight alone" } ], "redFlags": [ "Syncope, chest pain, marked weakness or severe malnutrition needs urgent assessment", "Self-harm risk or inability to eat/drink requires immediate help" ], "publishedAt": "2026-10-28", "updatedAt": "2026-10-28", "sources": [ { "title": "2023 IOC consensus statement on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs)", "organization": "International Olympic Committee / British Journal of Sports Medicine", "url": "https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/17/1073" }, { "title": "Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: Clinical Practice Guideline (2017)", "organization": "Endocrine Society", "url": "https://www.endocrine.org/clinical-practice-guidelines/hypothalamic-amenorrhea" } ], "url": "https://chenjiwumd.com/sports-medicine-dictionary/relative-energy-deficiency-in-sport/", "relatedTerms": [ "stress-fracture", "tendinopathy" ], "relatedQuestions": [ "reds-normal-weight-male-athlete", "reds-contraceptive-withdrawal-bleed" ] } ] }