Understand why it happens and what we can do to stop it.

Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s crucial for our young baseball players: Little League Shoulder. This condition might sound serious, but with the right knowledge and approach, it’s something you can manage and prevent. Let’s unpack what Little League Shoulder is, how to spot it, and the best ways to keep your shoulder healthy and strong.

Key Points on Little League Shoulder:

• What is a Little League Shoulder?
  • A stress injury affecting the shoulder’s growth plate, common in young baseball players, especially pitchers.
  • It’s caused by being unprepared for repetitive throwing and doing it with poor technique, leading to pain and swelling (Williams, 2016).

• Symptoms to Watch For:

  • Shoulder pain during or after throwing.
  • Reduced throwing speed or accuracy.
  • Swelling or tenderness in the shoulder area.

• Prevention Strategies:

  • Adhere to pitch count guidelines to avoid overuse.
  • Ensure proper throwing mechanics and regular rest periods (Smith, 2018). Visit www.rotationalpowerperformance.com for recommended throwing development.
  • Cross-training can help balance muscle development and reduce injury risk.

• Treatment Approaches:

  • Rest is essential to allow the shoulder to heal.
  • Ice and gentle stretching can alleviate pain and maintain mobility.
    • We have found the thoracic spine is critical to the health of the shoulder
  • Physiotherapy is key for rehabilitation and to strengthen the shoulder safely (Cook, 2014). We emphasize control of the shoulder under load, not just can you move the band/weight.

• When to Seek Help:

  • Persistent or increasing shoulder pain.
  • Difficulty in performing usual throwing actions.
  • Any noticeable changes in arm or shoulder function during or after play.

Little League Shoulder doesn’t have to bench you or your young athlete. With the right care, knowledge, and preventive measures, you can keep the game enjoyable and safe. Remember, playing sports is about fun, growth, and health, not pushing through pain.

Call to Action:

Is shoulder pain affecting your young athlete’s game or daily life? Let’s tackle it together! Contact our physiotherapy practice now to book a consultation. Our team is ready to support your young player’s journey to a strong, healthy shoulder and a happy, active life!