Pitcher’s Elbow Treatment in Sturgis
Pitcher’s elbow is an overuse injury caused by the repetitive stress of overhead throwing — most commonly seen in baseball players, though it can affect anyone who performs similar arm motions regularly. It is a form of elbow tendonitis that causes tenderness, pain, and swelling on the inside of the elbow, and it tends to develop gradually over time rather than from a single incident. It is particularly common in younger athletes whose bones are still developing. At Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Jerrid Goebel treats pitcher’s elbow with safe, noninvasive chiropractic techniques that allow the arm to heal naturally — without medication or surgery.
Understanding Pitcher’s Elbow
The elbow is both a hinge joint and a pivot joint, giving it impressive range of motion but also making it vulnerable to overuse injuries. Pitcher’s elbow most commonly involves flexor tendonitis — inflammation in the tendons where they attach to the inner part of the upper arm bone (humerus). Repeated pitching without adequate rest creates cumulative stress on these tendons, eventually leading to pain that is felt during throwing and, in more severe cases, even at rest. The elbow may also feel locked or restricted, reducing range of motion and making it difficult or impossible to continue playing.
In the most severe cases involving ligament tears, surgical intervention — commonly known as Tommy John surgery — may be required. However, many cases of pitcher’s elbow respond well to chiropractic care and do not reach that point when treated promptly and appropriately.
Symptoms of Pitcher’s Elbow
Chiropractic Treatment for Pitcher’s Elbow
At Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Goebel uses a combination of proven, noninvasive techniques to reduce inflammation, break up scar tissue, restore mobility, and support the natural healing of the elbow tendons. A series of treatments is typically needed, and adequate rest from throwing is an essential part of recovery. Treatment may include:
- Deep tissue massage: Targeted soft tissue therapy to release tension, improve circulation, and restore range of motion in the elbow and forearm
- Chiropractic manipulation: Gentle adjustments to the elbow, wrist, and surrounding joints to restore proper mobility and reduce compensatory strain
- Ultrasound therapy: Sound wave treatment to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing in the affected tendons
- Cold laser therapy: Low-level laser to accelerate tissue repair and ease chronic and acute elbow pain
- Electrical muscle stimulation (e-stim): Gentle electrical currents to reduce pain, decrease muscle spasm, and help break up scar tissue
- At-home icing and exercise guidance: Practical recovery instructions including icing protocols and progressive exercises to rebuild strength and flexibility safely
Prevention Tips for Pitcher’s Elbow
Once you have recovered, taking steps to prevent recurrence is essential for staying healthy and on the field. Dr. Goebel recommends performing a light general warm-up before any throwing activity, stretching the arm muscles thoroughly before pitching, avoiding overloading the arm by playing in too many games back-to-back, and practicing proper pitching mechanics. Consulting with a throwing coach or specialist after recovery to refine your technique can also significantly reduce the risk of reinjury.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you or your athlete is experiencing inner elbow pain during or after throwing, contact Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Sturgis today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Goebel — the sooner treatment begins, the sooner you can get back on the field.
CONTACT US
