Introduction
Physical Therapy in Hazle Township for Osteochondritis dissecans
Welcome to FYZICAL Hazleton’s patient resource about adolescent osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow.
Young gymnasts and overhand athletes, such as baseball pitchers, tennis players, swimmers, or volleyball players, are prone to a troubling elbow condition called osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). This condition occurs when blood flow to the elbow joint becomes restricted or is cut off, causing bone under the cartilage to slowly die. This issue originates from the forceful and repeated actions of sports, which strain the immature surface of the outer part of the elbow joint. The bone under the joint surface gradually weakens and becomes damaged. This compresses blood vessels that transport oxygen and nutrients to the bone. As a result of reduced blood flow, the small section of bone dies. The bone may also begin to crack, and fragments of the dead bone may break off and become lodged in different areas. OCD causes pain and reduced motion of the elbow.
In the past, this condition was called “Little Leaguer’s elbow”, because it was so common in baseball pitchers between the ages of 12 and 20. In more recent years, it has become increasingly apparent that additional sports, such as gymnastics and racket sports, subject the elbow to similar forces. Thus, these types of sports can also lead to OCD of the elbow in adolescent athletes.
This guide will help you understand:
- how this problem develops
- how doctors identify the problem
- what treatment options are available