Overland ParkBlog
May 5, 2025
Understanding Pitcher’s Elbow: A TruMove Approach to Arm Care
Pitcher’s elbow, also known as medial epicondyle apophysitis, is a common overuse injury in young athletes—especially baseball and softball players. At TruMove Physical Therapy in Overland Park, we frequently work with youth pitchers, catchers, and throwers who experience pain on the inside of their elbow due to repetitive stress.
What Causes Pitcher’s Elbow?
This condition develops when repeated throwing puts strain on the growth plate on the inside of the elbow. While it’s most common in kids between ages 9 and 14, it can affect athletes of all ages who throw with high frequency and intensity.
Common risk factors include:
- Overuse from pitching too often without rest
- Poor throwing mechanics
- Year-round single-sport specialization
- Weak shoulder or core muscles
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Recognizing pitcher’s elbow early helps prevent long-term damage. Here are some of the most common signs:
- Pain on the inner elbow while throwing
- Tenderness near the growth plate
- Decreased throwing speed or control
- Elbow stiffness or swelling
If your athlete complains of elbow pain that lingers after throwing, it’s time to stop and get evaluated.
How TruMove Physical Therapy Can Help
At TruMove, we don’t just treat the pain—we look at the whole athlete. Our team uses a movement-based, hands-on approach to:
1. Relieve symptoms
We use manual therapy, soft tissue work, and modalities as needed to reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Restore strength and control
Customized rehab plans focus on building strength in the forearm, rotator cuff, shoulder blade, and trunk.
3. Address movement mechanics
We assess throwing form, posture, and mobility to reduce the stress that caused the injury in the first place.
4. Educate and prevent
We partner with parents, coaches, and athletes to guide proper rest, workload, and technique—so they can throw pain-free and stay that way.
Want to know what a PT evaluation includes? Here’s what to expect at your first visit.
Returning to Sport Safely
Once pain has resolved and strength has returned, we help guide a progressive return-to-throwing plan. No guesswork—just clear milestones and checkpoints to make sure your athlete is truly ready.
Elbow Pain in Overland Park? Let’s Talk.
If your child is struggling with elbow pain from throwing, TruMove Physical Therapy in Overland Park is here to help. We’re trusted by local athletes, coaches, and parents to keep arms healthy and games fun.
➡️ Book an injury evaluation or call us at 913-642-7746.
TruMove Physical Therapy is located in Overland Park, KS, specializing in injury prevention, recovery, and performance for athletes of all ages.
