A biomechanical comparison of forces generated in the curveball, fastball, and change-up pitches has been undertaken by S. Dun et al (Am J Sports Medicine. 2008;36[4]:686-692) to determine the risks of curveball pitches to youthful elbows. There has been a belief that the curveball pitch is harmful, especially to the immature ulnar collateral ligament, more so than, for example, the fastball.
Dun et al observed 29 baseball pitchers, aged 12.5±1.7 years, who threw 5 of each pitch type (ie, fastball, curveball, and change-ups). A three-dimensional motion analytic system was used to measure varus torque, shoulder internal rotation torque, and proximal force at the elbow and shoulder. The greatest force was generated by the fastball, then the curveball, and least the change-up.
The authors concluded that the curveball is not potentially more harmful to the young elbow than the fastball and that the number of pitches thrown carries a stronger risk than the nature of the pitch.
(ORTHOPEDICS 2008; 31:537)
Even young athletes can sustain strain and overuse injuries from too much training and sports. The problem that I commonly see in the office is the case of the young athlete being pushed by the parents. These kids just want to play for fun, but too often there is some well intentioned (read annoying and delusional) mother of father who thinks their son or daughter is the next great thing in their sport. These kids usually give up the sport as soon as they have the nerve and sense of independence that enables them to do so. Those athletes who really excel and go on to professional careers in sports do not need their parents to push them, they need their parents for support. Big difference.
Thanks.
JTM, MD