Biomechanical analysis of sport induced hamate stress fractures

Jasina A, Gräber S, Pourostad P, Schöffl V, Wagner M, Bayer T, Ohlmeyer S, Simon M, Lutter C (2025)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2025

Journal

Clinical biomechanics Elsevier

Book Volume: 126

Article Number: 106567

DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2025.106567

Abstract

Background: Bouldering is known for a high risk of hamate injuries. Over 75 % of sport climbers have signs of upper extremity overuse injuries. Training overload corresponds with bone edema and was linked to fractures of the hamate. To date, no study has addressed the pathomechanism of hamate fracture in climbing. The aim of this study was to investigate the stability of the hamate in a biomechanical setup under the tension of the flexor tendons. Methods: 20 fresh-frozen, unfixed human forearms were used for two test series. The test stand consisted of an modified isokinet. Tension was applied by a motor. The specimens were prepared and positioned in ulnar deviation for the first test series. Additionally, the flexor tendons of the specimens were replaced by a steel cable in the anatomical course for the second series. Findings: In the first series, no fracture occurred at the hamate. Causes for termination of these measurements were tendon rupture and failure of the suture in majority of the cases. In the second setup, tension was applied to the cable with an average maximum force of 1029.4 N [105 kg]. Fracture of the hamate occurred in two out of ten cases. The mean force measured in those cases was 1008.30 N [102.8 kg]. Interpretation: Our results shows that it is possible for flexor tendon's tensile load to cause hamate fracture. It must be considered in patients with ulnar localized pain in the wrist, especially with a suitable sports history. Its quick diagnosis allows further therapy and rehabilitation to be initiated.

Authors with CRIS profile

Volker Rainer Schöffl
Sabine Ohlmeyer Institute of Radiology

Involved external institutions

Universitätsmedizin Rostock DE Germany (DE) Leeds Beckett University GB United Kingdom (GB)

How to cite

APA:

Jasina, A., Gräber, S., Pourostad, P., Schöffl, V., Wagner, M., Bayer, T.,... Lutter, C. (2025). Biomechanical analysis of sport induced hamate stress fractures. Clinical biomechanics, 126. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2025.106567

MLA:

Jasina, Andrzej, et al. "Biomechanical analysis of sport induced hamate stress fractures." Clinical biomechanics 126 (2025).

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