What Is Little League Elbow?
Little League elbow is an overuse injury linked to repeated stress along the inside of a developing elbow. Pitching is a frequent cause, but catchers, infielders, and outfielders can also develop symptoms when their workload outpaces recovery.
Because a child’s growth plates are still open, repetitive motion affects the joint differently than it would in an adult. Our guide to growth plate fractures explains why injuries involving developing bones need age-appropriate care.
Signs that warrant attention may include:
- Tenderness along the inner elbow
- Swelling or stiffness
- Trouble fully bending or straightening the arm
- Reduced speed, accuracy, or endurance
- Pain that returns when practice resumes
- A pop, locking sensation, numbness, or tingling
Occasional muscle fatigue often improves quickly. Discomfort that lingers, changes a player’s mechanics, or interferes with normal arm movement should not be treated as routine soreness.
Why Playing Through Pain Can Prolong the Problem
Continuing to pitch or make hard throws keeps loading tissue that has not had time to recover. Some players compensate by changing their arm slot or relying more heavily on the shoulder and trunk, which can create problems elsewhere.
An evaluation with our sports medicine team may include a physical examination and imaging when appropriate. The findings help determine how long the player should rest and what benchmarks should be met before returning to competition.
Building a Safer Return-to-Throwing Plan
Recovery involves more than waiting for symptoms to fade. The player should regain comfortable motion and strength before gradually rebuilding distance, intensity, and pitch volume. Our throwing protocols include phased programs and youth pitch-count guidance for families and coaches.
Proper mechanics, scheduled rest, and honest communication about discomfort also matter. A sudden injury involving a pop, immediate swelling, or loss of motion may need prompt assessment through AOA Now Orthopaedic Immediate Care.
Have Your Child’s Elbow Pain Evaluated in Wichita
Recurring arm pain can interrupt a season and become harder to manage when ignored. To have your child evaluated by our team at Advanced Orthopaedics Associates, P.A., schedule an appointment in Wichita, KS, or call 316-631-1600.