Nerve injuries in the throwing elbow.

The unique anatomy of the elbow combined with the angular velocity and stresses placed across this hinge joint while throwing can cause a large number of pathologic changes associated with nerves. Although the ulnar nerve is the most commonly injured, neuropathies are also seen with the branches of the median and radial nerves. These neuropathies are typically responsive to rest, activity modification, ice, splinting, and anti-inflammatories. A graduated return to throwing is then needed before returning to play. When conservative measures fail, surgical decompression is warranted, but results have been less than perfect.