Synonyms: proximal humeral epiphyseolysis, osteochondrosis of the proximal humeral epiphysis
Mechanism: torsional overload
Athletes at risk: before fusion of the proximal humeral epiphysis (according to Ogden this is 12-14 years in girls and 15-17 years in boys. Fusion may be delayed until the early 20's if there is an endocrine disorder.)
Risk factors:
(1) overuse
(2) playing year round in warm weather climates
Clinical findings:
(1) pain in the proximal humerus when throwing
(2) painful arc of motion
(3) tenderness over the lateral proximal humerus
(4) swelling and weakness are rarely seen
The key radiographic feature is widening of the proximal humeral physis. Other findings may include:
(1) sclerosis of the proximal humeral metaphysis
(2) slipped humeral capital epiphysis
(3) lateral metaphyseal fragmentation
(4) demineralization
