In which phase is pain worse for valgus extension overload during throwing?

Valgus extension overload is a common issue in throwing athletes, primarily due to the forces exerted on the elbow joint during the throwing motion. This condition typically leads to pain and often results from repetitive stress on the ligaments and soft tissues surrounding the elbow.

The deceleration phase is particularly critical in this context. During this phase, the arm rapidly slows down after the ball has been released, creating substantial tension on the elbow structures. The valgus stress combined with the high impact forces can exacerbate any pre-existing conditions, such as medial elbow instability or ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries. As a result, this phase is when the athlete is most likely to experience significant pain due to the mechanical overload on the elbow, which includes the joint's tendency to be stressed excessively in a valgus direction.

Understanding the specific mechanics of throwing and how different phases of the throw affect injury risk is crucial for both prevention and rehabilitation strategies in sports medicine.