Athletes of all ages are more prone to certain injuries, and children are
no exception. Child baseball, softball, and even football players may
develop little league shoulder, a condition that affects the growth plates.
Although painful and inconvenient, this issue is treatable and children
often see a full recovery with proper care and management.
About Little League Shoulder
When the shoulder joint is overworked, used incorrectly, or injured in
some way, it can damage the growth plates at the end of the long bones.
This area, called the epiphyseal plate, can become weak and may separate,
causing little league shoulder. The growth plates are the weakest part
of the shoulder and are therefore more susceptible to injury. These types
of injuries can be caused by overuse due to repeated pitching, or poor
mechanics.
Signs Your Child May Have Little League Shoulder
Children, especially active children, are injured often, and so it can
sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between typical bruises
or aches and viable injuries. The most common symptom of little league
shoulder is discomfort or pain in the shoulder area, especially when pitching
or throwing. Your child might also begin to throw in a different way,
and the throwing speed is likely to decrease.
What Can You Do?
If you suspect your child has little league shoulder, stop all activity
for that shoulder immediately. If little league shoulder goes unchecked
or your child continues with his or her normal activities, it could result
in serious bone damage to the shoulder. However, when treated, most children
make a full recovery. Although children suffering from little league shoulder
should stop any overhead activity, they may still continue with other
athletic activities that do not put further stress on the injured area.
For example, cardiovascular activity should be perfectly acceptable.
Most importantly, make sure you take your doctor to see a trained medical
professional for little league shoulder treatment. Experienced physical
therapists can work with your child to stretch and strengthen the injured
area, promoting healing and preventing further damage.
If you suspect your child has little league shoulder, our team wants to help. Contact Georgia Accident Rehab Centers
to book an appointment at our Decatur office today.