GYMNAST'S WRIST

Question 1

Gymnast’s wrist definition

Answer 1

Distal radial physeal stress syndrome

Question 2

Most common demographic group for gymnast’s wrist

Answer 2

Young gymnasts with open distal radius physis

Question 3

Pathophysiology of gymnast’s wrist

Answer 3

• Distal radial physis is subjected to supraphysiologic loads due to weightbearing
• Results in inflammation of physis
• Can lead to premature physeal closure with ulna overgrowth

Question 4

2 main investigations for diagnosis of gymnast’s wrist

Answer 4

1. Plain radiographs
   - widening of physis
   - positive ulna variance in chronic cases
2. MRI
   - paraphyseal oedema
   - bony bar/ bridge across physis