We present a case of transient quadriparesis in an 8-yr-old football player with a normal cervical spinal canal but Chiari I malformation of the hindbrain. Chiari I consists of herniation of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum, which reduces space available for the spinal cord. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain or cervical spine can identify asymptomatic Chiari I, whereas previously myelography was necessary. The incidence and natural history of Chiari I malformation is reviewed, with special reference to the question of return-to-play in young athletes.
VO2 max is a measure of athletic performance and is generally considered an excellent health parameter for athletic performance testing. Various methods are used to generate such a result generally using a treadmill or cycle ergometer. Improvements have been shown through training. The upper limit of such improvement has been difficult to find in the literature in part because testing often starts with individuals already at a superior level of performance. As genetics may play a significant role in an individual's VO2 max, training can only contribute a portion of the result. Humans have a range of maximal oxygen utilization with upper limits approaching 100 mL/kg. This case report demonstrates a 96% improvement over time secondary to selective intense training. The intent was to document objectively amelioration of the VO2 max using a defined protocol on standardized testing equipment. This may lead to more efficient training of individuals desiring performance improvement.
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