What is Little League Shoulder characterized by?

Little League Shoulder is primarily characterized by proximal humeral epiphysiolysis, which is a stress-related injury affecting the growth plate at the proximal humerus in young athletes. This condition occurs predominantly in baseball players who are in their growth phase and who frequently throw. As they continue to engage in repetitive overhead activities, the growth plate can become overloaded, leading to inflammation and possibly even separation of the epiphysis from the humerus.

The name "Little League Shoulder" reflects its association with young athletes participating in Little League baseball. The condition typically manifests as shoulder pain during throwing, which can be accompanied by a reduced range of motion and strength in the shoulder. Proper diagnosis and management are essential to prevent further injury and ensure full recovery, highlighting the importance of understanding this unique stress injury common in youthful athletes.