Best Practice Case Studies-Little League Shoulder

Pdf Summary

"Little league shoulder" is a condition affecting young athletes who engage in repeated overhead throwing, leading to microscopic injuries and irritation of the growth plate in the shoulder. It primarily affects baseball players but can also impact athletes in sports like volleyball and tennis. The condition arises from stress on the growth plate, which results in inflammation and pain, and is often caused by poor mechanics, high pitch counts, and improper technique when throwing breaking balls.<br /><br />Symptoms of little league shoulder include gradual onset of shoulder pain while throwing, particularly after an increased number of throws or when trying to increase velocity. The shoulder may also remain painful for days after throwing and could appear swollen. Diagnosis typically involves history taking, physical examination, and X-rays to compare the growth plate with the uninjured arm. In some cases, MRI may be required.<br /><br />Treatment mainly involves resting the affected shoulder for 2-3 months, coupled with physical therapy to strengthen the rotator cuff and stretch the back part of the shoulder. Upon returning to play, athletes should begin with low-intensity throwing, gradually increasing distance and velocity under the absence of pain.<br /><br />Prevention measures include ensuring proper throwing techniques, avoiding breaking ball pitches until the athlete is older and skeletally mature, and enforcing pitch or throw count limitations based on age groups. After recovery and non-painful rehabilitation, athletes can participate in a graduated throwing program over several weeks to fully return to sports.<br /><br />The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) emphasizes education, research, and advocacy in sports medicine, providing comprehensive care to athletes across all levels, including amateur and professional sports teams.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 44

Topic Pediatric Issues

Keywords

3rd Edition, CASE 44

3rd Edition

Pediatric Issues

little league shoulder

overhead throwing

growth plate injuries

baseball players

shoulder pain

physical therapy

proper throwing techniques

pitch count limitations

rotator cuff strengthening

American Medical Society for Sports Medicine