Hand and Wrist in Athletes Neurovascular injuries of the hand in athletes

Neurovascular syndromes at the wrist and hand of athletes remain relatively rare clinical entities. These represent unique pathologies that are most often secondary to the repetitive motion and stresses in these regions accrued during racquet sports or sports with recurrent impact to the hand and wrist. The anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment algorithms are reviewed for the more common syndromes that afflict this distinct, yet diverse, patient population. A wide spectrum of nerve and vascular disorders may affect the performance of an athlete. Because these are relatively rare conditions, a high index of suspicion is paramount to accurate diagnosis and timely referral and treatment.