Opening the Black Box: Evaluating the Pediatric Athlete With Elbow Pain

Abstract

Evaluation and treatment of pediatric elbow injuries in sport can be difficult because of the complex anatomy, evolving bony and cartilaginous composition, and multiple varied forces applied during athletic competition. In addition, youth sports are now putting even greater demands on the elbow of young athletes. It is important to understand the risk factors for injury, age-appropriate conditions affecting the elbow, proper treatment of these conditions, and prevention strategies for elbow injuries in this young athletic population.