Little Leaguers Elbow

Ahh…baseball season is upon us. As a child I loved showing up to the baseball field with the smell of fresh cut grass in the air and the anticipation of a long weekend day at the park playing little league. It is a time when young people learn the basics of the game and also good sportsmanship.

One of the most common injuries in little league is called “little leaguers elbow.” It is an overuse injury causing pain on the inside part of the elbow. This happens with too much repetitive throwing causing inflammation at the growth plate on the inside end of the elbow, known as the medial epicondyle.

With years of research the USA baseball medical and safety advisory committee has listed recommendations for pitch counts and at what age athletes may start throwing certain pitches. This information can be found by searching the internet for the above listed committee.

Treatment of this condition is total rest from throwing activities for 4 to 6 weeks, but a strength and conditioning program designed to increase core strength and maintain cardiovascular endurance is recommended. After 4 to 6 weeks of non throwing activities and as long as no pain is present the athlete may return to a structured throwing program.

Throwing mechanics should be assessed by a physical therapist or a baseball coach specializing in biomechanics of throwing. Often poor mechanics can lead to further injury.

We hope everyone has a great and pain free baseball season.