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Dr Phillip Bennion, Best Orthopedic Surgeon, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Glendale, Peoria, AZ / Shoulder / Little League Shoulder

Little League Shoulder

Little league shoulder is an injury to the growth plate of the upper arm bone in the shoulder joint of children. It is caused due to overuse from 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.

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

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

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