Evaluation and physical therapy treatment of an elite CrossFit athlete with latissimus dorsi muscle injury: a case report

Abstract

Introduction: Latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle injuries are rare and primarily occur in high-level competitive athletes. To date, no similar case reports detailing the rehabilitation process have been found. The objective of this case report is to describe the assessment and physical therapy treatment of an elite CrossFit athlete at a private physical therapy clinic. 

Case presentation: A 28-year-old female patient, an elite CrossFit athlete, suffered an LD muscle injury during a competition. An ultrasound performed 72 h later confirmed the injury. Subsequent physical therapy treatment was active and primarily focused on the progression of various therapeutic exercises. Several assessments were conducted to monitor the athlete's adaptation (LD isometric strength test, self-reported questionnaires, and functional assessment to the upper extremity.

Conclusion: The optimal progression of exercises during treatment, along with fluid communication among the athlete, coach, and physiotherapist, allowed a return to daily training with the same level of loads, intensity, and volume as before the injury. The patient returned to competition 45 days after discharge from physiotherapy.