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Little league shoulder: case report and literature review
1Department of Orthopaedics, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA.
Insights
Little Leaguer's shoulder, an injury to the proximal humeral epiphysis in young baseball pitchers, occurs due to unique pediatric anatomical differences. This review covers causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for this specific growth plate injury.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Skeletal Development
Background:
- Children exhibit distinct injury patterns compared to adults due to anatomical variations.
- The growth plate (physis) in pediatric long bones is particularly vulnerable to injury.
- Little Leaguer's shoulder specifically affects the open proximal humeral epiphysis in young baseball pitchers.
Observation:
- This case report and literature review focuses on Little Leaguer's shoulder.
- Etiologies, clinical presentation, and physical examination findings are detailed.
- Radiographic evidence and management strategies are discussed.
Findings:
- The open proximal humeral epiphysis is susceptible to overuse injuries in pediatric athletes.
- Specific diagnostic criteria and imaging findings are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Treatment involves activity modification, physical therapy, and sometimes surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Understanding unique pediatric biomechanics is vital for preventing and managing sports-related injuries.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management can prevent long-term complications in young athletes.
- This condition highlights the importance of tailored treatment approaches for pediatric skeletal injuries.
Abstract:
When compared with adults, children have unique injury patterns secondary to their anatomical differences. The susceptibility of the growth plate to injury is well-documented. "Little Leaguer's shoulder" is the term used for injury to the open proximal humeral epiphysis in the Little League pitcher. We present a case report and literary review. Discussed are the possible etiologies, patient presentation, physical exam, radiographic findings, and treatment recommendations.
