As we delve into the intricacies of sports medicine and surgery, it is both an honor and a privilege to introduce this targeted issue of our esteemed Aspetar journal, dedicated to the critical examination of pain and nerve compression syndromes in athletes. In the dynamic realm of sports, where physical prowess converges with relentless dedication, the realm of pain becomes an inevitable companion to athletes, exerting a profound impact on their performance and, perhaps most significantly, on their journey back to play.
This compilation of articles is a testament to the evolving landscape of sports medicine and surgery, casting a focused lens on the interplay between pain and nerve compression syndromes. Our contributors, renowned experts in their respective fields, meticulously dissect the multifaceted dimensions of nerve compressions and offer insights to aid in understanding our athletes in pain.
The spectrum of pain and nerve disorders explored in this issue is as diverse as the athletic disciplines it affects. From the complexities of head and neck pain following whiplash and concussion injuries, traversing the demanding landscapes of the throwing athletes' shoulders and the incessant pain of the golfer’s and tennis elbows, to the nuanced intricacies of hand and wrist pain experienced by cyclists and Paralympian athletes — each article meticulously unveils the unique challenges posed by pain in these specialized domains.
Furthermore, the exploration extends to the intricate realm of post-knee surgery pain in football players, the enigmatic confines of groin pain limiting sports activity, and the elusive nature of foot and ankle nerve disorders, impeding the very essence of walking and running. In light of contemporary advancements, this issue also showcases the emergence of cutting-edge imaging techniques, providing a window into the world of nerve compressions as a source of pain and dysfunction.
In concert with the strides made in imaging technology, the integration of clinical treatment algorithms takes center stage in our issue. We endeavor to unravel the complexities of diagnosing nerve disorders, presenting practical and efficient clinical approaches that promise to enhance the precision of diagnostics, thus guiding practitioners toward targeted and effective interventions.
As we navigate through this scientific expedition, it is our fervent hope that this collection serves as a source of inspiration and knowledge for clinicians, researchers, and all stakeholders invested in the optimal health and performance of athletes. In understanding the complexities of pain in sports, we illuminate the path towards improved diagnostics, more effective treatments, and ultimately, the enhancement of athletes' well-being.
This targeted issue would never have been possible without the dedication, time, and passion of outstanding surgeons, sports medicine physicians, radiologists, and physiotherapists who have shared their extensive knowledge in the field of pain and nerve compression syndromes in athletes. This issue boasts contributions from both North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
May this issue be a stepping stone toward a deeper comprehension of pain and nerve compression syndromes in athletes, fostering a collective commitment to elevating the standards of sports medicine and, in turn, empowering athletes to overcome the challenges that pain presents on their journey to triumph and success.
Elisabet Hagert, MD PhD
Associate Professor