Vorwort

`Upper Extremity Injuries in the Athlete' is directed to all health care professionals who provide advice and care to patients with athletic injuries. The scope and significance of upper extremity injuries in the athlete are reflected in the range of those who seek care. From the weekend tennis player to the professional baseball player, each has individual anatomic and clinical characteristics. The approach and goal is the same for every athlete regardless of the level or skill: a successful return to sport. The purpose of this text is to provide the health care professional with the anatomic and pathologic basis of specific injuries along with the details of diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This information is conveyed through case studies and by relevant illustrations. Realistic situations are outlined using a wide range of athletic activities and skill levels. The first section, Principles of Evaluation and Care of the Upper Extremity, provides general principles of evaluation in the care of the upper extremity injury with a progression to specific populations. The next four sections follow a regional sequence with the first chapters of each section focusing on anatomy and function, followed by information on acute and chronic injuries. Although operative treatment is necessary in certain cases, the emphasis is on the importance of conditioning and rehabilitation to prevent injury and re-injury. lt is hoped that this particular focus will provide new information for the health care professional and thereby benefit the athlete with an upper extremity injury. Vorwort