 |  Essentials of Athletic Training, 5/e Daniel Arnheim
William Prentice,
University of North Carolina
The Thorax and Abdomen
Chapter Overview- The thorax is that portion of the body commonly known as the chest, which lies between the base of the neck and the diaphragm. Its main functions are to protect the vital respiratory and circulatory organs and to assist the lungs in inspiration and expiration during the breathing process. Within the thoracic cage lie the lungs and the heart.
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The abdominal cavity lies between the diaphragm and the bones of the pelvis and is bounded by the margin of the lower ribs, the abdominal muscles, and the vertebral column. The abdominal viscera are composed of both hollow and solid organs. Organs in the abdominal cavity may be classified as part of the urinary system, the digestive system, the reproductive system, or the lymphatic system.
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Injuries to the heart, lungs, and abdominal viscera can be potentially serious and even life threatening if not recognized and managed appropriately.
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For the coach evaluating an injury to the abdomen or thorax, the initial primary survey should focus on those signs and symptoms that indicate some life-threatening condition. Asking pertinent questions, observing body positioning, and palpation of the injured structures are critical in assessing the nature of the injury.
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Rib fractures and contusions, costal border injuries, muscle strains, and breast injuries are all common injuries to the chest wall.
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Injuries involving the lungs include pneumothorax, tension pneumothorax, hemothorax, and traumatic asphyxia.
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The most common cause of exercise-induced sudden death is some congenital cardiovascular abnormality. The three most prevalent conditions are hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, anomalous origin of the coronary artery, and Marfan's syndrome.
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Injuries to the abdominal wall include muscle strains, getting the wind knocked out, and the development of an inguinal or femoral hernia.
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With any injury to the abdominal region, internal injury to the abdominal viscera must be considered. Injuries to the liver, spleen, and kidneys are among the more common athletic injuries associated with the abdominal viscera.
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Injuries to the reproductive organs in sports are much more likely to occur in the male because the male genitalia are more exposed.
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2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education