Athletic children have many advantages, but they may also face a few drawbacks. While they boast strong, fit bodies and healthy appetites, they may also suffer injuries more frequently. One such injury, little league shoulder typically affects children who are regularly involved in overhead activities, like throwing. If your child has little league shoulder, it is important that you take the necessary steps to heal the shoulder and prevent further injury so that you can get your little athlete back on the field.
What is Little League Shoulder?
Little league shoulder is classified as an overuse injury because it typically occurs in young athletes who stress their bodies on a regular basis. This type of injury occurs when the growth plate in the shoulder, the epiphyseal plate, weakens or becomes damaged and becomes separated. Damage to the growth plate can occur either because of excessive pitching, poorly executed mechanics, or several other overhead activities that stress the shoulder.
Common Symptoms
The most common sign of little league shoulder is pain in the area affected, especially when pitching or doing other overhead activities. Your child might also exhibit a different throwing motion, and may throw at a slower speed. A doctor or chiropractor can confirm that your child is suffering from little league shoulder after an examination, or sometimes an MRI or x-ray exam.
Best Possible Treatment Methods
After you learn your child has little league shoulder, it is important to make sure his or her shoulder receives the rest it needs. However, this does not mean your child must be barred from all physical activity. The shoulder should be rested for a minimum of 4-8 weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. While it would not be a good idea to continue any overheard activities, your child will likely still be encouraged to participate in cardiovascular activities or other sports that do not involve throwing.
Besides rest, your child might also benefit from physical therapy and guided strengthening exercises provided by a medical professional. To learn more about potential treatment options for your child, speak to one of our trained chiropractors at Atlanta Pain & Rehab.
Contact Atlanta Pain & Rehab to book an appointment at our Atlanta office today.