Weight training injuries: part 1: diagnosing and managing acute conditions.

When patients present with acute weight training injuries, familiarity with the demands of the activity can help physicians get the most out of the patient history. Probable risk factors for injury include errors in technique (described in a sidebar), skeletal immaturity, and anabolic steroid abuse. Common acute injuries in weight training include sprains, strains, tendon avulsions, and compartment syndrome. Possible nonmusculoskeletal problems include retinal hemorrhage, radiculopathy, and various cardiovascular complications. Treatment of acute musculoskeletal injuries varies, but usually includes sports medicine mainstays such as prompt RICE. Chronic weight training injuries will be described in part 2 of this series.