Articular injuries

Diagnosis and management of joint injuries common in sports practice.

Joint Injuries in Physical Assessment

1. Objective

  • Identify joint history (sprains, dislocations, osteoarthritis, ligament lesions).
  • Detect mobility limitations and recurrence risks.
  • Adapt physical preparation and training loads to avoid aggravation.

2. Joints Often Concerned

JointCommon Injuries
AnkleSprains, chronic instability.
KneeMeniscal lesions, ligament injuries (ACL, PCL), patellar syndrome.
HipFemoroacetabular impingement, osteoarthritis.
ShoulderDislocations, tendinopathies, instability.
Wrist & HandSprains, poorly consolidated old fractures.
SpineLower back pain, herniated discs, stiffness.

3. Elements to Assess

  • Anamnesis (Questionnaire): History of injuries or surgeries, frequency and circumstances of pain, reported instability or clicking sounds.
  • Observation & Inspection: Visible deformities, swelling, redness, asymmetries.
  • Joint Mobility: Passive and active range of motion (flexion, extension, rotation); side-to-side comparison.
  • Ligament Stability: Specific tests (e.g., Lachman test for knee, drawer test for ankle).
  • Functional Pain: Rated on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS 0–10).

4. Interpretation & Follow-up

  • No limitations: Fit for normal training.
  • Mild instability or moderate pain: Adapted program with targeted muscle strengthening.
  • Severe pain or marked limitation: Medical consultation required before any return to activity

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