As 2026 unfolds, sports medicine continues to advance at an impressive pace. At Current Sports Medicine Reports, the goal remains clear: deliver practical, evidence-based insights that help clinicians translate research into real-world care—whether in clinics, locker rooms, or on the sidelines.
The first quarter of Volume 25 brought a strong lineup of articles, ranging from diagnostic deep dives to influential consensus statements. Below is a curated overview of standout contributions from January through April.
January: Neuromusculoskeletal Focus
Cervical Radiculopathy and Neuromusculoskeletal Mimics in the Athlete
Rebecca Dutton, MD; Ian Cummins, MD; Berdale Colorado, DO, MPH
Overview:
This detailed review tackles one of the most common clinical challenges—distinguishing true cervical radiculopathy from similar conditions like nerve entrapments, thoracic outlet syndrome, and referred myofascial pain.
Why It Matters:
In competitive sports, diagnostic accuracy is critical. Misinterpretation can lead to unnecessary procedures or even premature career endings. This article stands out for its practical guidance on physical examination techniques, helping clinicians avoid over-reliance on imaging and make precise diagnoses.
February: Policy and Consensus
The Adolescent Athlete and the Team Physician: 2025 Consensus Update
Margot Putukian, MD, FACSM; Lance E. Leclere, MD; Stanley A. Herring, MD, FACSM, et al.
Overview:
An updated consensus statement addressing the evolving responsibilities of physicians caring for young athletes, covering medical, psychological, and legal considerations.
Why It Matters:
With increasing pressures such as NIL opportunities and year-round training, adolescent athletes face unique risks. This document serves as a comprehensive guide, emphasizing ethical care and prioritizing long-term health over short-term performance.
March: Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Young Athletes: Managing the Invisible Challenge
Elizaveta Khenner, MD; Michele Maddux, PhD; Shannon Paseka, RD; Rachel L. Chevalier, MD
Overview:
This article sheds light on managing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in athletic populations, focusing on nutrition, hydration, and training adjustments.
Why It Matters:
IBD often goes unnoticed but can significantly impact both physical performance and mental well-being. By addressing this sensitive topic, the article equips clinicians with strategies to support athletes without compromising their health or competitive goals.
April: Environmental and Global Sports Medicine
Travel Medicine in Sports: Updated Best Practices and Infectious Risks
Jeniffer N. Gameros Gallegos, MD; Anuruddh K. Misra, MD
Overview:
A timely update on managing athlete health during travel, including vaccination protocols, jet lag management, and emerging infectious threats.
Why It Matters:
In an era of frequent international competition, even minor health disruptions can affect performance. This piece offers a practical checklist for team physicians to minimize risks and optimize readiness before competition begins.
Editor’s Picks: Noteworthy Clinical Features
Several additional contributions from Q1 deserve special attention:
- CAQ Review: Brachial Plexopathies (Austin T. Rasmussen, MD, et al.)
A concise yet comprehensive refresher on brachial plexus anatomy—essential for certification preparation and clinical practice. - Case Report: Genetic Hypophosphatasia in a Female Runner (Zachary Ryan, MS, et al.)
Highlights how rare metabolic bone disorders can present as recurring stress fractures, encouraging clinicians to think beyond common causes. - Invited Commentary: Sideline Malpractice Coverage (Neha P. Raukar, MD, MS, et al.)
Explores legal risks faced by physicians, particularly when working across jurisdictions or in volunteer roles. - Spectrum Review: Cholinergic Urticaria to Anaphylaxis (Kimberly Burbank, MD, et al.)
Examines the progression from mild heat-induced reactions to severe exercise-related anaphylaxis, emphasizing early recognition and management.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the coming months, these contributions reflect the collaborative effort driving progress in sports medicine. The dedication of authors, reviewers, and clinicians continues to elevate standards of care for athletes at every level.
By staying informed and applying these insights, practitioners can deliver safer, smarter, and more effective care—both on and off the field.
