Sports-related extensor carpi ulnaris pathology: a review of functional anatomy, sports injury and management
Open Access
- 4 October 2013
- journal article
- review article
- Published by BMJ in British Journal of Sports Medicine
- Vol. 47 (17), 1105-1111
- https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2013-092835
Abstract
The extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) muscle plays a key role not only in the active movements of wrist extension and ulnar deviation but also in providing stability to the ulnar side of the wrist. Its position relative to the other structures in the wrist changes with forearm pronation and supination. As such, it must be mobile yet stable. The ECU tendon relies on specific stabilising structures to hold it in the correct positions to perform its different functions. These structures can be injured in a variety of different athletic activities such as tennis, golf and rugby league, yet their injury and disruption is predictable when the mechanics of the ECU and the techniques of the sport are understood. The ECU tendon is also vulnerable to tendon pathologies other than instability. It lies subcutaneously and is easily palpated and visualised with diagnostic ultrasound, allowing early diagnosis and management of its specific conditions. Treatment includes rest, splintage and surgery with each modality having specific indications and recognised outcomes. This review described the functional anatomy in relevant sporting situations and explained how problems occur as well as when and how to intervene.This publication has 18 references indexed in Scilit:
- In-vivoconfirmation of the use of the dart thrower’s motion during activities of daily livingJournal of Hand Surgery (European Volume), 2012
- Ultrasound Imaging of Normal Displacement of the Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Tendon Within the Ulnar Groove in 12 Forearm–Wrist PositionsAmerican Journal of Roentgenology, 2009
- The ECU Synergy Test: An Aid to Diagnose ECU TendonitisThe Journal of Hand Surgery, 2008
- Is tendon pathology a continuum? A pathology model to explain the clinical presentation of load-induced tendinopathyBritish Journal of Sports Medicine, 2008
- LONG TERM FOLLOW-UP AFTER FINGER REPLANTATIONJournal of Hand Surgery (European Volume), 2008
- Diagnosis and Anatomic Reconstruction of Extensor Carpi Ulnaris SubluxationThe Journal of Hand Surgery, 2008
- Extensor carpi ulnaris injuries in tennis players: a study of 28 casesBritish Journal of Sports Medicine, 2006
- Carpal Fractures in AthletesClinics in Sports Medicine, 2001
- Excursion of prime wrist tendonsThe Journal of Hand Surgery, 1993
- A survey of golf injuries in amateur golfers.British Journal of Sports Medicine, 1992