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Elbow injuries in throwing athletes, such as baseball pitchers, are typically overuse injuries caused by the repetitive high valgus and extension loads imparted on the elbow during the overhead throwing motion. These injuries can be acute or chronic and often involve the medial (inner) stabilizing structures of the elbow.
Common Symptoms
Cause & Anatomy
The overhead throwing motion places tremendous stress on the elbow joint, particularly the:
The forces during throwing apply tensile stress to the medial (inner) stabilizers, compression on the lateral (outer) side, and shear stress posteriorly.
Diagnosis
Prevention
Prevention is key and involves limiting pitch counts, innings, months per year, and throwing with fatigue/pain. Emphasis on proper mechanics is also important.
Common Injuries
Treatment
Surgery
Surgery may be required for injuries not responding to conservative treatment, such as:
Rehabilitation
A comprehensive rehabilitation program focused on restoring strength, flexibility and proper throwing mechanics is critical after injury or surgery before returning to play.
