Athletes who train regularly with weights may have to further modify their lifting technique. If a young athlete who is not yet fully grown begins to develop elbow pain on the inside aspect of the elbow, this should also be evaluated by the family orthopedic surgeon. Unlike adult overuse injuries to the elbow, which usually involve injury to the tendinous attachment to the bone, little leaguer's elbow may actually be the result of a defect in the bone itself. After careful evaluation by the physician, the young athlete may require a rehabilitation program prior to returning to sports related activities or may actually be forced to rest the arm for a period of months. Injuries to the elbows are very common in the athlete.
Most elbow injuries are with a sudden increase in that activity.
Usually, most elbow problems respond to conservative treatments involving physical therapy and rehabilitation. If elbow symptoms occur, it is usually beneficial to seek consultation with your physician in an effort to get the problem taken care of as quickly as possible. This can usually be accomplished while still participating in the sport that the athlete enjoys. Most importantly, most overuse injuries to the elbow can be prevented by emphasizing proper technique. Remember, if you increase activity in a sport, do it on a gradual basis.