Sports Med Newsletter

Email Sign Up

Preferred email format:
Text HTML

What is Little Leaguer's Elbow? -by Vic Goradia, M.D.

Little Leaguer's Elbow is a common problem in baseball players. Repetitive throwing can create excess forces along the elbow joint. If this initial injury is not treated it can lead to more severe and permanent problems such as ligament tears, cartilage injury and even growth disturbance.

Osteochondrosis dissecans is a less common condition that is also caused by excessive throwing and may be the source of the pain on the outside of the elbow.

Risk Factors / Prevention

Little Leaguer's Elbow affects pitchers and other players who throw repetitively. Continuing to throw may lead to major complications and jeopardize a youngster's ability to remain active in a sport that requires throwing.

Symptoms

Little Leaguer's Elbow may cause pain on the inside of the elbow. A child should stop throwing if any of the following symptoms appear:

Treatment Options

If Little Leaguer's Elbow is left untreated, osteochondrosis dissecans can become a complicated condition. Younger children tend to respond better to non surgical treatments* Rest the affected area.

	Apply ice packs to bring down any swelling.
	If pain persists after a few days of complete rest of the affected area or if pain recurs when throwing is resumed, stop the activity again until the youngster gets treatment.
	Return to throwing.

Surgical Treatment Options

With Little Leaguer's Elbow, surgery may be necessary, especially in girls more than 12 years old and boys more than 14 years old.