Little league elbow Flashcards
1
Q
Causes of little league elbow
A
- Anatomically, at the end of bones in the elbow, there are apophyses (soft cartilage growth plates) that are soft and easily injured before they harden to bone withincreased age.
- The repeated action of throwing, placesthe cartilage growth plates within theelbow under a lot of stress.
- Repetitive stress to the medial part of the elbow can cause a fracture, or damage to the tendons, ligaments, and growth plates respectively.
2
Q
Signs and symptoms of little league elbow
A
- “Locked” or stiff elbow.
- A bump may appear on the medial part of the elbow.
- Swelling and inflammation.
- Difficulty extending elbow to end range or motion.
- Pain within the elbow joint.
- Advanced stages can lead to
3
Q
Physical therapy treatment for little league elbow
A
- Many patients with Little League Elbow can alleviate their symptoms with “RICE” and physical therapy.
- Early Mobilization: Wrist and elbow flexion and extension, forearm pronation, progress PROM to AROM.
- Joint Mobilizations: Wrist and elbow joints
- Nerve Mobilizations- Progressive Strengthening: Eccentric wrist and elbow flexion and extension resisted exercises.
- Progress to throwing specific exercises when pain free.
4
Q
medical treatment for little league elbow
A
- Surgery may be necessary in certain cases of Little League Elbow.
- The type of surgery depends on the specific injury location within the joint and seriousness of the injury.
- In most cases involving surgery, the ligaments are attached back to the bone and ensuring no more bone is loose.
- Recovery is usually 2-3 months with a gradual return to throwing
- NSAIDS are generally prescribed for pain relief
5
Q
Prevention of little league elbow
A
- Athletes should follow pitching guidelines
- Avoid maximum throw positions on the days they have pitched
- Stressing correct pitching and throwing mechanics
- Active rest: Period of rest where athlete is active, but not throwing
- Proper conditioning before the season
6
Q
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