About little league elbow
In young athletes, the inner elbow has a growth plate that is weaker than the surrounding tendons and ligaments. Repeated throwing pulls on this area and can irritate or even separate the growth plate. This overload injury is often called Little League elbow.
It is most common in pitchers and catchers but can affect any young athlete who throws hard and often. Early recognition matters, because continuing to throw through pain can lead to more serious injury to the growth plate, the ligament, or the joint surface.
Common symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow during or after throwing
- Decreased throwing speed, distance, or accuracy
- Tenderness over the inner elbow
- Trouble fully straightening the elbow
- Locking or catching, which needs prompt evaluation
Common causes and risk factors
- High pitch counts and too many innings
- Playing on multiple teams or year-round without breaks
- Throwing while tired
- Throwing mechanics that stress the inner elbow
- Weakness in the shoulder, core, and hips that shifts load to the elbow
How we diagnose it
Dr. Gruner examines the elbow, shoulder, and overall throwing chain and reviews the athlete's throwing schedule. Ultrasound at the exam table can compare the growth plates and inner elbow ligament on both sides, including under gentle stress. X-rays are often ordered, and MRI may be needed if locking, loss of motion, or a joint surface injury is suspected.
How Propel treats little league elbow
Treatment starts with a break from throwing while staying active in other ways, followed by strength work for the shoulder, core, and hips. When pain has settled and the exam is normal, a structured, progressive throwing program guides the return. We also review pitch counts, rest days, and seasonal breaks with families and coaches.
For older teens and young adults with a partial injury of the inner elbow ligament that has not settled with rehab, Dr. Gruner may discuss PRP to support healing. A growth plate that has separated, a loose fragment in the joint, or a complete ligament tear may need surgery, and we help coordinate prompt referral.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about little league elbow
- How long does my child need to stop throwing?
- It depends on the exam and imaging. Many young athletes need several weeks off throwing, followed by a gradual throwing program. Returning too soon raises the risk of a repeat or more serious injury.
- Can my child still play other positions or sports?
- Often, yes. Activities that do not involve throwing, along with running and strength work, usually keep young athletes fit and engaged while the elbow recovers.
- How can Little League elbow be prevented?
- Following age-based pitch count and rest guidelines, taking time off from throwing each year, and avoiding pitching on multiple teams at once all help. Building shoulder, core, and hip strength also reduces stress on the elbow.