Little League introduces many youngsters to baseball, creating a lifelong love for the sport. Unfortunately, Little League may also introduce children to injuries. Improper technique, poor practice habits and playing too much may all lead to potentially serious health concerns, with the most common Little League injuries often affecting the shoulder and elbow.
Little League Shoulder
Pitchers and catchers most often experience what's known as Little League Shoulder, or a fracture in the growth plate of the proximal humerus located at the top of the arm bone. The constant rotational stress of repeatedly throwing a baseball causes the bone to crack. Boys between the ages of 11 and 16 are particularly susceptible to this type of injury, since the humerus typically doesn't quit growing until 18 years of age. Little League Shoulder causes pain in the shoulder and armpit. Three to four weeks of rest will help the bone mend and alleviate the discomfort.
Little League Elbow
The most common injury for young baseball players, Little League Elbow typically strikes children between the ages of 8 and 15. The extreme arm acceleration involved in throwing a baseball places a great deal of stress on the arm, particularly the medial or inside of the elbow. Poor pitching technique and overuse contributes to developing the condition. Little League Elbow causes severe pain that only increases with the number of throws or when attempting to throw with greater velocity. Icing the elbow several times a day and ceasing all throwing activities can help the injury heal in three to four weeks.
Ankle Sprains
Little Leaguers often suffer sprained ankles when running the bases, with improper sliding technique leading to a number of injuries. Aside from practicing the correct way to slide, wearing suitable baseball cleats and stretching before practices and games can help prevent sprained ankles. Rest, ice, compression and keeping the ankle elevated can treat ankle sprains in as little as three days.
Concussions
Even Little Leaguers are at risk for concussions due to collisions in the field or from getting struck in the head by a pitched ball. Concussions occur when the brain crashes into the skull, resulting in such side effects as headaches, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, amnesia and changes in behavior. Any Little Leaguer suspected of a concussion must be removed from the game and receive immediate medical attention. Treatment involves prolonged rest and no physical activities until all concussion symptoms have subsided.
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