Little Leaguer’s Elbow In New Jersey

Young athletes who train and play sports intensively have the opportunity to achieve a competitive edge, but a rigorous athletic schedule, particularly one focused on a single sport year-round, may also come with the increased risk of potential injury. The condition known as Little Leaguer’s Elbow typically occurs in young throwing athletes, such as baseball pitchers and catchers, and is often associated with overuse due to intensive athletic training.

If your child is a throwing athlete and experiencing elbow pain, stiffness, or weakness that is affecting their athletic performance and day-to-day activities, Little Leaguer’s Elbow could be the underlying cause. To learn more about this condition and receive a definitive diagnosis and personalized treatment plan from our world-class team of elbow joint specialists, contact Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey to schedule an appointment.

What Is Little Leaguer’s Elbow?

Little Leaguer’s Elbow refers to pain and discomfort caused by damage to the structures of the elbow joint, including the bones, muscles, tendons, and/or ligaments. Characterized by pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the elbow joint, the condition may worsen without proper rest and attention. If left untreated, Little Leaguer’s elbow can lead to the tearing of ligaments or tendons and/or the painful separation of bones. Proper diagnosis and treatment is vital.

In growing children, the three bones that articulate at the elbow joint (the humerus, ulna, and radius) contain soft areas of cartilage known as growth plates at either end. Growth plates do not fully harden until adulthood and are susceptible to damage due to traumatic injury or overuse. Repetitive stress caused by overhead throwing is the primary cause of Little Leaguer’s Elbow and can lead to injury of the growth plates as well as the other structures that provide support and stability to the elbow joint.

Throwing athletes between the ages of 8-14 are at the highest risk of developing Little Leaguer’s Elbow, though the condition may also affect youth who are slightly younger or older. Risk factors for developing Little Leaguer’s Elbow include the following:

• Year-round training in pitching or other types of throwing
• Playing on multiple baseball teams in a single season
• Poor throwing mechanics/technique
• Improper warmup
• Lack of proper conditioning
• A single traumatic injury

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Common symptoms of Little Leaguer’s Elbow may include:

• Pain in the elbow joint, often affecting the medial (inner) elbow
• Swelling, redness, discoloration, and/or bruising of the elbow joint
• Limited range of motion, particularly when straightening the arm
• Weakness in the elbow joint
• Stiffness in the elbow joint
• Acute pain when throwing

Diagnosis of the condition involves taking a thorough medical and symptom history as well as performing an in-depth physical examination. Diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may also be ordered to better visualize the affected area and accurately evaluate the type and extent of damage that has occurred.

Treating Little Leaguer’s Elbow

Little Leaguer’s Elbow is a highly treatable condition that can usually be resolved using conservative treatment approaches. In severe cases, however, elbow surgery may be recommended.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Non-surgical treatment options for Little Leaguer’s Elbow may include:

• Rest
• Icing
• Activity modification
• Bracing
• Pain medication
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation

Surgical Treatment Options

In cases where surgery is recommended for the treatment of Little Leaguer’s Elbow, our team of award-winning doctors takes an individualized approach tailored to the precise needs of each patient. Proper post-surgical rehabilitation and a slow, gradual return to throwing afterward are key to a lasting recovery. Contact us at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey today to learn more!

Why Choose Modern Orthopaedics Of New Jersey For Little Leaguer’s Elbow Treatment?

At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our leading team of doctors and orthopedic surgeons possesses the extensive training, experience, and expertise necessary to put your young athlete on the quickest road to recovery. Using cutting-edge approaches in a state-of-the-art environment, we take a patient-centered approach to diagnosis and treatment that ensures a positive experience for patients of all ages. Our team has successfully treated numerous cases of Little Leaguer’s Elbow and looks forward to working with your family!

Preventing Little Leaguer’s Elbow

Though it may not always be possible to prevent Little Leaguer’s Elbow, the following practices can help to reduce the risk of injury for young throwing athletes:

• Sufficient rest between intensive training sessions and pitching games
• Training in proper throwing mechanics and technique
• A well-rounded approach to sports training that doesn’t require young athletes to specialize too early
• Conditioning of the core, shoulder, elbow, and lower body
• Education about Little Leaguer’s Elbow for coaches, parents, and players

Scheduling Your Appointment

Ready to get to the bottom of your child’s elbow pain and discomfort? So is the highly qualified team at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey. Contact us directly to book your appointment today!