A clinical and roentgenographic study of Little League elbow.

BACKGROUND: Comparisons of medial elbow injury rate and the incidence of clinical and radiographic findings among Little League baseball players have not been documented.

HYPOTHESIS: Injury rate and clinical and radiographic findings in Little Leaguers of different positions may be similar.

STUDY DESIGN: Survey and retrospective review.

METHODS: Altogether, 343 Little Leaguers (120 pitchers, 40 catchers, and 183 fielders) participated in the study. The survey (including age, playing position, playing experience, and symptoms), clinical examination, and roentgenogram of both elbows were obtained for analysis using Pearson's chi-square test.

RESULTS: Clinically, 58% of the pitchers presented with soreness compared to 63% in catchers and 47% in fielders. Radiographic examination revealed hypertrophy of the medial humeral epicondyle in all pitchers and catchers and 90% of the fielders. Separation of the medial epicondyle was found in 63% of pitchers, 70% of catchers, and 50% of fielders, while fragmentation was found in 19% of pitchers, 40% of catchers, and 15% of fielders. In subjects with separation or fragmentation, 49% and 56% complained of elbow soreness, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Similar rates of medial elbow changes in Little Leaguers may imply that the roentgenological changes of the medial epicondyle could be an adaptive yet physiological reaction to the excessive valgus stress of throwing. The higher incidence of medial epicondylar separation and fragmentation in catchers that has not been reported before may be secondary to the increased stress placed on the elbow when throwing from the squatting position.