The role of electrodiagnostics in the study of muscle kinesiology,muscle fatigue and peripheral nerve injuries in sports medicine

Abstract

Athletes are susceptible to peripheral nerve injuries because of the extreme physical challenges to which they are exposed. These injuries are often associated with subtle abnormalities and can be difficult to diagnose. They may be overlooked because the well motivated and conditioned athlete often compensates for or is not aware of mild weakness and sensory deficits. Electrodiagnostic studies play an important role in diagnosing peripheral injuries, objectifying neurologic damage and prognosticating outcome. They are also being used to study muscle kinesiology and fatigue. This article will review some of the basic neurophysiologic and electrophysiologic principles relevant to peripheral nerve injuries, and introduce the clinician treating athletes to the role of electrodiagnostics in sports medicine and some of the common peripheral nerves injured.