About Throwing Injuries
Injuries to the elbow are common in throwing athletes, such as baseball pitchers. Overhand throwing places significant stress on the elbow, which is often repeated many times over the course of days, months, and years. Injuries may occur slowly as the result of overuse, acutely due to a sudden and specific trauma, or may occur acutely after a period of overuse.
Diagnosing Throwing Injuries in the Elbow
There are several injuries to the elbow that are commonly associated with throwing. These injuries vary in symptoms and severity. They include:
- Flexor pronator mass tendinitis or tearing
- Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury (including UCL tear)
- Valgus extension overload (VEO)
- Olecranon stress fracture
- Ulnar neuritis
Most of these injuries initially cause pain in the elbow, which can be noticeable while throwing or during rest. They frequently result in reduced throwing velocity or decreased control while throwing.
It is important to see a doctor to properly diagnose and treat elbow injuries that occur as a result of throwing. Since overuse is so often a factor in these injuries, it is especially important to get a proper diagnosis as soon as symptoms are noticed.
Treatment Options
Course of treatment depends on the injury diagnosed by your doctor. In many cases, the first course of treatment will be a period of rest, along with ice and medication but depends on the injury pattern. Physical therapy and throwing mechanics should also be addressed. Recently the use of PRP has shown to be effective in returning high level throwers to sport.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary. One of the most well-known throwing injuries, a UCL tear, requires the procedure known as Tommy John surgery, which is a surgical reconstruction of the UCL. In some cases repair with an internal brace may also be considered. Other conditions may be treatable with minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures. In most cases, the prognosis for these injuries is good, with a return to a similar level of performance likely.
Schedule a Consultation With OSMC
OSMC’s physicians are experienced with throwing injuries and conditions that cause pain in the elbow. Due to the nature of these injuries and their association with overuse, it is critical to receive a proper diagnosis from a doctor as soon as symptoms are noticed. To schedule your consultation, click here.