# Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy and the Handstand-Position Radiography for Proximal Humeral Epiphysiolysis in Elite Gymnasts: A Report of Two Cases

## TL;DR

Two elite gymnasts with shoulder injuries were successfully treated with non-surgical methods, including shock wave therapy and special radiography.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and handstand-position radiography in treating proximal humeral epiphysiolysis in gymnasts.

## Key findings

- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy led to rapid bone repair and pain relief in one gymnast.
- Handstand-position radiography identified humeral shortening and compensatory movements, avoiding surgery in another case.

## Abstract

We report two cases of proximal humeral epiphysiolysis in elite gymnasts. Both patients presented with shoulder pain during weight-bearing movements. The patient in case 1, treated with extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), exhibited rapid bone repair and pain relief, allowing an early return to competition. In the case 2 patient, humeral shortening was identified. Handstand-position radiography revealed compensatory scapular movements, negating the need for surgical intervention. These findings highlight ESWT's potential in promoting bone repair and the utility of handstand-position radiography in assessing humeral length. Both methods provide innovative treatment approaches for proximal humeral epiphysiolysis in gymnasts.