Specialized Shoulder Care in Colorado Springs

Little League Shoulder

Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group

Your shoulder is one of the body's most mobile joints, allowing you to reach, lift, rotate, and perform countless everyday movements. Because of this mobility, the shoulder can also be susceptible to injuries, overuse, arthritis, and other conditions that cause pain and limit movement.

CSOG provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a wide range of shoulder conditions, from sports injuries and tendon problems to arthritis, instability, and fractures. Depending on your condition, treatment may include physical therapy, activity modification, medications, injections, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.

Our shoulder specialists take the time to understand your symptoms, activity level, and goals so you can receive treatment designed to reduce pain, improve function, and help you get back to the activities that are important to you.

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What is the Pediatric Shoulder Anatomy?

The upper arm bone is called the humerus. It forms the shoulder joint at the upper end and elbows joint at the lower end. In children, the bone continues from a region called the growth plate, which is found at the ends of the bone. This is a region of cartilage cells, which are still soft. In time, they mature and harden to form the adult bone.

What is Little League Shoulder?

Little league shoulder is an injury to the growth plate of the upper arm bone at the shoulder joint of children. It is an overuse injury caused by repeated pitching or throwing, especially in children between the ages of 10 to 15 years. This condition is mostly seen in baseball pitchers, but children in other sports who use improper throwing action are also at risk.

What are the Symptoms of Little League Shoulder?

The symptoms associated with this condition include:

• Pain in the shoulder while playing
• Swelling of the shoulder joint
• Reduced speed and control while throwing
• Difficulty in lifting the arm

How is Little League Shoulder Diagnosed?

Little league shoulder is diagnosed with a review of your child’s symptoms, medical history and a physical examination of the shoulder. Your doctor may also suggest a shoulder X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.

What is the Treatment for Little League Shoulder?

Little league shoulder is best treated by resting the shoulder until the injury heals. Your child’s doctor may recommend exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles or physical therapy during this time.