Elbow Pain in Young and Competitive Throwers Deserves Expert Attention
Throwing injuries of the elbow are common in baseball players, especially pitchers, and other overhead athletes. These injuries typically develop over time from the repetitive stress of throwing, especially when training volume or intensity increases too quickly. While elbow pain may seem minor at first, continued throwing can lead to serious damage that affects long-term performance and joint stability.
At Michigan Orthopedic Center, our orthopedic specialists diagnose and treat overuse elbow injuries with care tailored to each athlete’s age, activity level, and goals. When conservative treatment is not enough, our fellowship-trained surgeons offer advanced procedures to repair or reconstruct damaged tissue and support a safe return to play.
Why Throwing Stresses the Elbow
During a throw, especially the acceleration phase, the inside (medial) part of the elbow experiences extreme force. Repeating this motion over time without adequate rest can irritate growth plates in young athletes or tear key stabilizing ligaments in mature athletes.
Common Throwing Injuries We Treat
We frequently diagnose and treat conditions like:
Medial Apophysitis (Little Leaguer’s Elbow)
Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury
General Throwing-Related Overuse Injuries
Symptoms to Watch For
Athletes experiencing elbow overuse injuries may notice:
- Pain on the inner side of the elbow while throwing
- Decreased throwing speed or accuracy
- Stiffness or aching after activity
- Numbness or tingling in the forearm or fingers
- A “pop” or sharp pain during a throw (suggesting a possible ligament tear)
Meet Our Elbow Surgeons
At Michigan Orthopedic Center in Lansing, MI, advanced elbow care starts with the expertise of our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons. Each surgeon listed below has specialized training and extensive experience in treating complex elbow injuries and conditions, from tendon and ligament repairs to fracture stabilization and joint replacement.
Click below to learn more about the surgeons who specialize in elbow care at Michigan Orthopedic Center and find the right expert for your needs.
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Meredith C. Heisey, DO
Board Certified & Fellowship Trained Orthopedic SurgeonShoulder, Elbow & Knee Specialist
Accurate Diagnosis and Imaging
Our team performs a detailed physical exam and may order X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to evaluate tendon, ligament, and bone structure.
For younger athletes, we assess for open growth plates and early signs of apophysitis.
Treatment Options Based on Age and Injury Severity
We often begin with:
- Temporary rest from throwing
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy focused on mechanics and strengthening
- Throwing program adjustments or gradual return-to-play plans
For more advanced injuries, especially UCL tears in competitive athletes, surgery may be needed to restore joint stability and allow a return to high-level throwing.
Protect Long-Term Performance with Early Care
Elbow pain should never be ignored in athletes who throw regularly. At Michigan Orthopedic Center, we help athletes of all ages heal fully and safely return to the sport they love.
Contact our team today to schedule your elbow evaluation and protect your arm for the seasons ahead.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free
