Little League Shoulder
What is Little League Shoulder?
Little league shoulder is an overuse injury caused by stress to the arm bone (humerus) nearest to the shoulder. This stress causes widening of the growth plate, resulting in swelling and pain at the shoulder. Mostly occurs in youth overhand pitchers.
Causes
Little league shoulder can be caused by:
- TOO much throwing
- Lack of muscle strength and endurance
- Improper throwing mechanics
- Playing multiple positions that require different throwing mechanics
- Playing on multiple leagues/ teams simultaneously
- X-Ray findings can show a widening at the growth center of the proximal humerus
Signs and Symptoms
Athletes will complain of:
- Trouble lifting the affected arm
- Swelling
- Pain with throwing over time, the shoulder can become painful at rest
- Decreased speed and control with throwing
Treatment
Little league shoulder is treated by:
- Recommendations of 6-8 weeks of complete rest to protect the growth center of the humerus. After the recommended period of rest, physical therapy referral for upper extremity and core strengthening with emphasis on proper throwing mechanics.
- Utilizing a throwing program from Athletic Trainer or Physical Therapist. Allows for a gradual and safe return to play. Limits amount of pitches/throws to not over stress the shoulder joint
Prevention
Prevention strategies consist of:
- Avoiding throwing curveball and sliders
- Initiating a pitch count
- Prevention strategies should be instilled until the adolescent is skeletally mature
