Many young athletes face challenges like Little League Elbow or Little Leaguer’s Elbow—a condition that affects growing children and adolescents with soft “growth plates.” These growth plates, found in areas of developing bone, remain weak until they fuse in late adolescence.
When your forearm muscles contract forcefully, like during pitching or throwing, they create a tremendous pull on the growth plate of your elbow where the forearm muscles attach.
Pain or swelling develops when the growth plate, tendons, or muscles become irritated or begin to fail. This condition is called “little league elbow” because it strikes up to half of all youth baseball players; but the problem affects many other types of athletes too, typically between the ages of 7-16.
Symptoms of Little League Elbow often appear after increased activity levels, such as longer innings or a higher pitch count, without sufficient rest. If your young athlete experiences any of the following, it’s essential to seek care promptly:
- 1
Tenderness or swelling on the inner elbow (medial epicondyle).
- 2
Difficulty fully straightening the elbow.
- 3
Decreased speed, accuracy, or distance when pitching.
- 4
Visible bony enlargement around the elbow joint.
Important: If your child experiences fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats, notify your provider immediately, as these may indicate other conditions.
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Supporting Young Athletes with Expert Care in West Des Moines
At Ashworth Chiropractic in West Des Moines, we specialize in helping young athletes recover from Little League Elbow.
While the condition may temporarily limit your child’s activity, our holistic approach—including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and physical therapy—ensures effective pain relief and recovery.
With our expert care and guidance, your child can return to pain-free activity in a relatively short time.
Chiropractic Care: Aligning Joints for Optimal Recovery
Little League Elbow can stem from imbalances in your child’s musculoskeletal system, especially in the elbow, shoulder, or spine. Our chiropractic adjustments help:
Massage Therapy: Easing Muscle Tension for Faster Recovery
Overused forearm and upper arm muscles can increase stress on the elbow joint. Our targeted massage therapy helps:
Acupuncture: A Natural Solution for Pain and Inflammation
For a holistic approach to Little League Elbow, acupuncture offers effective, drug-free relief. Our treatments:
Physical Therapy: Building Strength for Recovery and Prevention
To promote lasting recovery from Little League Elbow, our physical therapy programs focus on:
Frequently Asked Questions About Little League Elbow
Your Path to Wellness Begins Here!
Our experts in chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy work as a team to provide holistic care that meets your specific needs. Book your appointment today and experience coordinated care.