In approximately 7 to 10 days, the athlete may begin a light stretching program. The stretches should include the wrist flexors (figure 2), wrist extensors (figure 3) and elbow flexors (figure 4). In addition, a light strengthening program is initiated. The athlete should begin with isometric strengthening and perform these exercises for one week. Then, at 3 weeks, the athlete may begin an isometric strengthening program. The Thrower’s Ten Program is commonly prescribed .
Once the athlete exhibits full non-painful range of motion, normal strength and no tenderness over the injured area, the athlete may begin an interval-throwing program. The throwing athlete should begin throwing from 45 feet and gradually increase the distance over the next several weeks.
If pain persists or worsens, the athlete should contact their sports medicine physician as soon as possible.
a) Pinning of an avulsed (broken off) medial apophyses if separation greater then 3mm.
The treatment for this injury begins with a thorough examination, which include radiographics x-rays.Once examined and the absence of any boney injury has been established, a non-operative treatment program is initiated. The immediate treatment is rest, cessation from throwing and ice.Throwing activities are usually limited for approximately 6 to 8 weeks. The actual length of rest depends on the degree of soreness. The use of ice reduces the inflammation and pain.
In approximately 7 to 10 days, the athlete may begin a light stretching program. The stretches should include the wrist flexors (figure 2), wrist extensors (figure 3) and elbow flexors (figure 4). In addition, a light strengthening program is initiated. The athlete should begin with isometric strengthening (see web page for isometrics for baseball players) and perform these exercises for one week. Then, at 3 weeks, the athlete may begin an isometric strengthening program. The Thrower’s Ten Program is commonly prescribed.
Once the athlete exhibits full non-painful range of motion, normal strength and no tenderness over the injured area, the athlete may begin an interval-throwing program. The throwing athlete should begin throwing from 45 feet and gradually increase the distance over the next several weeks. See web page on interval throwing program for details.
If pain persists or worsens, the athlete should contact their sports medicine physician as soon as possible.
Andrews JR, Zarins B, Wilk KE: Injuries in Baseball. Philadelphia, Lippincott-Raven Publishing, 1998.