Many sports injuries result from pushing our bodies past our current physical limits or level of conditioning. Baseball is a high-impact sport that can take a toll on your body, especially your elbow. Elbow injuries are common among baseball players, from Little League to the Major Leagues.
In baseball, elbow pain is usually caused by overuse and repetitive motion. This can eventually hinder a player's range of motion and limit or prevent the ability to throw a ball. If you're an athlete who plays baseball, it's essential to be aware of the types of common elbow injuries in baseball, and how to prevent them.
Here are some of the most common elbow injuries experienced by baseball players:
Elbow Strains and Sprains
These injuries can occur when the muscles and ligaments around the elbow are overstretched or torn. Repetitive motions, such as pitching, typically cause elbow strains. At the same time, sprains usually occur from a single traumatic event, such as falling on an outstretched arm.
Elbow Tendonitis
This is an inflammation of the tendons around the elbow joint. It can be caused by repetitive motions, overuse, or direct trauma to the area. Our doctor-approved elbow compression can significantly reduce inflammation caused by tendonitis.
Bursitis
This is an inflammation of the bursae, which are tiny sacs of fluid that cushion the joints. Bursitis can be caused by repetitive motions, direct trauma, or infection.
Cubital tunnel syndrome
This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs from the shoulder to the hand, becomes compressed at the elbow. It can be caused by repetitive motions, such as bending the elbow for long periods.
Olecranon bursitis
This is an inflammation of the olecranon bursa, which is a small sac of fluid that cushions the elbow joint. It can be caused by direct trauma, overuse, or infection.
Radial head fractures
This type of fracture occurs when the radial head, which is the large bone in the forearm, is broken. It can be caused by a direct blow to the elbow or falling on an outstretched arm.
Preventing elbow injuries is key to keeping yourself in the game. Some tips to avoid injury include:
- Warming up properly before games or practice
- Stretching the muscles and tendons around the elbow regularly
- Wearing appropriate protective gear, such as elbow pads
- Taking breaks from baseball activities periodically to allow the elbow to rest
- Using compression to increase blood flow and decrease inflammation
Following these tips can help reduce your risk of sustaining an elbow injury.
Suppose you suspect that you may have any of these injuries or conditions. In that case, it's essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Elbow injuries can often be treated effectively with rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary. There are several kinds of elbow surgery.
Do you have one of these common elbow injuries? Check out our article on how athletes can manage elbow injuries for more tips on moving through it and getting back to your sport as soon as possible!
Body Helix LLC, BodyHelix.com or any affiliated brand of Body Helix does not seek to provide medical advice. If you or someone you know has experienced any injury, see a licensed medical provider for a professional opinion and treatment.
At Body Helix, we start with an unapologetic obsession for exceptional quality and make innovative products to serve athletes of all levels. We believe in and promote salutogenesis. Your wellness is our primary directive. We continually research to provide reliable information and actionable tips to optimize your fitness.
Learn, Share, Inspire
Andrew Puckett
Director of Marketing, Team Body Helix
