INTRODUCTION​

• Little leaguer’s shoulder is an overuse injury to the growth plate of the shoulder bone

• This usually affects growing children and adolescents who participate in sports that involve repetitive ball throwing such as baseball pitching

• It is more common in males than females

• Ignoring little leaguer’s shoulder can lead to premature growth plate closure, resulting in deformity and shortening of the arm

CAUSES

Repetitive distraction and torsional forces on the growth plate of the shoulder bone (proximal humerus)

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Pain and tenderness in the outer (lateral) part of the shoulder 

• Worse with activity, better with rest

• Characterized by decreased pitch velocity (speed) and pitch accuracy

TREATMENT​​

• Little leaguer’s shoulder is an overuse problem and the treatment is to decrease use

• Stopping pitching to allow the growth plate to rest is the first and most important step in the treatment process. This can last 2 to 3 months or until symptoms are completely resolved

• This is followed by physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder

• Finally, a pitching program needs to be instituted to progressively increase the speed and number of throws within a reasonable limit

PREVENTION​

• The best way to prevent little leaguer’s shoulder is to work on proper pitching mechanics, enforcing pitch counts, and avoiding year-round pitching