Exertional Rhabdomyolysis in a High School Athlete

A Case Review

Felton, Shawn D. EdD, ATC, LAT
Heinemann, Denise DrPH, RN
Craddock, Jason EdD, ATC, LAT, CSCS

The authors are from Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Fla.

The authors have no financial or proprietary interest in the materials presented herein.

Address correspondence to Shawn D. Felton, EdD, ATC, LAT, Florida Gulf Coast University, College of Health Professions-Department of Physical Therapy and Human Performance, 10501 FGCU Blvd South, Fort Myers, FL 33965; e-mail: [email protected].

Received July 23, 2009

Accepted November 09, 2010

Athletic Training & Sports Health Care 3(5):p 230-234, August 01, 2011. | DOI: 10.3928/19425864-20110131-01

Following the afternoon two-a-day training session, a 15-year-old male high school football player with no prior medical history reported to the athletic trainer with bilateral triceps pain and mild swelling later diagnosed as exertional rhabdomyolysis. An infrequent diagnosis among athletes, particularly high school athletes, exertional rhabdomyolysis can occur across the lifespan as a result of muscle damage from trauma, metabolic disorders, prolonged immobilization, and unusual physical exertion. Because the condition can lead to renal failure if untreated, it is important to recognize the presenting signs and symptoms and refer the individual for medical assessment immediately. Exertional rhabdomyolysis can develop after an athlete has left practice, a particular concern among high school athletes. It is prudent to educate student athletes and their parents about the signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis, particularly in the southern United States where hot weather and high humidity are risk factors for the condition, notably during preseason training sessions.