Little Leaguer’s elbow is an injury that commonly occurs due to overuse, especially with repetitive throwing. It most commonly occurs to children between the ages of 8 and 15 years. The condition is due to repetitive stress on the growth plate (growing tissue) on the inside of the elbow. Growing bones are more easily injured than mature bones because the growth plate is much weaker than the ligaments and muscles that attach to it.

Symptoms of Little Leaguer’s elbow include:

• Ache in the elbow and arm
• Painful popping sensation
• Sharp pain in the elbow and arm
• Swelling of the inside of the elbow

Tests

Physical examination
Your child’s doctor will conduct a complete physical examination and collect your health history to help make the diagnosis.

X-ray
Your child’s specialist may order an X-ray to determine how much the growth plate has been affected by this condition.

Treatments

Rest
Your child will need to avoid all physical activity involving the affected arm while he or she heals.

Physical therapy
Your health care provider may prescribe rehabilitation therapy. Our physical therapists establish a unique plan of care that includes specific interventions for your condition and situation to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Why Choose the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute?

World-class care in an academic health system. As a research and teaching institution, we treat children and adults with proven, leading-edge procedures based on clinical studies performed at the Miller School of Medicine. Our doctors, residents, nurses, and therapists work together to create healthy outcomes.