Pitcher’s/Little League Elbow
Little League Elbow is an injury of the growth plate that occurs in youth/adolescent overhead athletes, most commonly baseball players.
The repetitive stress placed on the inner elbow, as in pitching, causes damage to the growth plate.
– Improper overhand throwing mechanics.
– Excessive throwing.Â
– Poor arm care.
– Weakness in related musculature.
– Rapid growth.
– Persistent/worsening pain with throwing.
– Loss of range of motion.
– Stiffness/swelling in the area.
– Tender to the touch.
At Home Diagnostic Tests
– None – see symptom list.
At Home Care
– Avoid irritating activities.Â
– Total rest from pitching.Â
– Comfort care:Â ice, NSAIDs as needed.
When to Seek Help
Contact your physical therapist if pain persists or gets worse in 1 week.
Inspired Athletx Treatment
At Inspired Athletx, we take a multi-faceted approach to treating Little League Elbow, beginning with discussions about pitching habits and typical pitch count, growth patterns and physical maturity, an examination of the elbow, and a comprehensive assessment of general and sport specific movement patterns. Treatment addresses contributing factors, including inefficient pitching mechanics, weaknesses throughout the body, and behaviors related to overuse.