Extensor Hood Syndrome—Osteophytic Irritation of Digital Extensor Tendons in Rock Climbers

摘要

Objective.—Injuries to the flexor tendons and flexor tendon pulleys are frequently reported in rocknclimbers. Osteoarthritic changes with bone spurs are also well known. We report on the less commonlyndescribed extensor tendon irritation caused by such osteophytes.nMethods.—Thirteen high-level rock climbers (12 men, 1 woman; average age 33.8 years [rangen17–55]; average years of climbing experience 19 [range 5–30]; average climbing level 10.2) withnextensor hood irritation caused by dorsally located osteophytes of proximal interphalangeal (n u0001 10)nor distal interphalangeal joints (n u0001 3) were evaluated and managed. Twelve climbers receivednconservative therapy and 1 climber was treated surgically.nResults.—Before treatment, the climbers were unable to achieve their normal climbing ability duento extensor tendon irritations with resultant effusion noted in the ultrasound examinations. Afternconservative treatment, and in 1 case surgery, all patients achieved their previous climbing ability.nConclusion.—While all climbers were able to achieve their former climbing level after treatment, thencondition is progressive and the osteoarthritic changes will likely cause further problems for thesenidividuals in the future. Extensor hood irritation must be considered in the differential diagnosis ofnfinger pain in rock climbers.