Saw A, Eales B, Jones N, Obst A, Smith M, Kountouris A, Saw R. Lumbar Bone Stress Injuries and Nonunited Defects in Elite Australian Cricket Players.
Clin J Sport Med 2024;
34:44-51. [PMID:
36853903 DOI:
10.1097/jsm.0000000000001132]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To describe the presentation and management of lumbar bone stress injuries (LBSI), recurrent LBSI, and lumbar nonunited defects in elite Australian male and female cricket players.
DESIGN
Retrospective case series.
SETTING
Professional domestic and international cricket teams over 13 seasons.
PARTICIPANTS
Elite Australian cricket players.
INDEPENDENT VARIABLES
Symptomatic LBSI requiring time off cricket and lumbar nonunited defects, both confirmed by imaging.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Incidence, presentation, history, healing, and management.
RESULTS
211 LBSI were identified at an average incidence of 5.4 per 100 players per season. LBSI were most common in male pace bowlers younger than 20 years of age (58.1 per 100 players per season), however, were also observed in older players, females, and non-pace bowlers. Recurrent LBSI accounted for 33% (27%-40%) of all LBSI. Median days to return to match availability was 182 (128-251) days for all LBSI, with a shorter time frame observed for new and less severe injuries, and male spin bowlers. Healing was demonstrated in 87% (81%-91%) of all LBSI cases. 29 nonunited defects were identified and predisposed subsequent pain, LBSI, and spondylolisthesis.
CONCLUSIONS
LBSI are experienced by approximately 5.4 in every 100 elite Australian cricket players per season, with a high time cost of approximately 4 to 8 months. Nonunited defects also have a high time cost with associated subsequent lumbar spine issues. The findings of this study reinforce the importance of early detection and conservative management of LBSI, particularly for younger male pace bowlers and players with recurrent LBSI, which may be supported by MRI.
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