Imaging of cricket injuries

Abstract

In this chapter, we explore the sport-specific injuries experienced by cricket players. Injuries in cricketers are rising in prevalence, particularly in the skeletally immature. This is due to increased professionalization and increased playing intensity. Injuries are common place as a batsman, fielder, and bowler, but it is the fast bowlers in particular that suffer the most time lost to the sport if injured. The nature of the bowling technique puts strain on the lumbar spine and the lateral abdominal wall on the non-bowling arm side. We present the biomechanical causes, the radiological appearances, and the further management of spinal and truncal stress injuries. We also briefly review injuries common to all players regardless of their position. It is important that all people involved with players should be aware of these injuries as they can cause chronic problems and can limit some players’ careers if not recognized and appropriately rehabilitated.