Vascular disorders in athletes

Vasc Med. 2010 Dec;15(6):469-79. doi: 10.1177/1358863X10382944. Epub 2010 Sep 30.

Abstract

Athletes rarely present with symptoms or clinical findings suggestive of vascular disease. However, vascular etiologies should be considered when an athlete complains of persistent symptoms which are refractory to conservative therapies commonly used for presumed musculoskeletal injuries. A comprehensive history should be performed, with special consideration to the postures the athlete assumes repeatedly during their chosen sport. Musculoskeletal anatomy surrounding the vascular bed of interest should be thoroughly reviewed. Physical examination should include provocative maneuvers specific to the suspected vascular disorder. The proper use of noninvasive diagnostic studies, including duplex ultrasonography, computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with catheter-based angiography, when indicated, can ensure prompt diagnosis. Appropriate, multifaceted treatment of an athlete affected by a vascular disorder can facilitate an expeditious return to previous levels of activity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Athletes*
  • Athletic Injuries / diagnosis
  • Athletic Injuries / etiology*
  • Athletic Injuries / physiopathology
  • Athletic Injuries / therapy
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods
  • Humans
  • Musculoskeletal System / physiopathology*
  • Physical Exertion*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Recovery of Function
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular Diseases / diagnosis
  • Vascular Diseases / etiology*
  • Vascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Vascular Diseases / therapy