APEX Elbow Mastering Surgical Techniques for Clinical Success-The Evaluation & Treatment of the Adolescent and Adult Thrower with Shoulder or Elbow Pain

The Evaluation & Treatment of the Adolescent and Adult Thrower with Shoulder or Elbow Pain

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Kevin Wilk’s presentation focuses on rehabilitation after elbow injuries and surgeries, especially in overhead throwers like baseball pitchers. Elbow injuries, particularly ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears, are increasing, partly due to higher throwing velocities and specialized pitching techniques. Wilk emphasizes risk factors such as overuse, poor mechanics, single-sport specialization, and fatigue, which contribute to injury prevalence among youth and elite athletes.<br /><br />He outlines evaluation strategies, noting the importance of assessing the entire body—including hips, core, and shoulder—not just the elbow. Rehabilitation involves individualized, phased protocols stressing range of motion, strength, and plyometrics before progressing to interval throwing. Treatments vary depending on injury severity and procedures, ranging from non-operative care to surgical reconstruction or newer internal brace/hybrid techniques, with return-to-play timelines typically between 6 and 12 months.<br /><br />Wilk also discusses adjunct therapies like laser and focused shockwave treatment for tendinitis, highlights the challenges of managing valgus extension overload and tendinopathies, and underscores the necessity of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach for optimal recovery. Technologies like motion sensors help monitor rehabilitation loads. Overall, he stresses that successful outcomes require addressing whole-body function, cautious progression, and tailored rehabilitation plans, aiming for 85-95% success rates in UCL surgery patients.

Asset Caption

Kevin E. Wilk, PT, DPT, FAPTA

Keywords

elbow rehabilitation

ulnar collateral ligament tears

overhead throwers

throwing injuries

rehabilitation protocols

surgical reconstruction

multidisciplinary approach