What is valgus extension overload?

Valgus extension overload (VEO) is a constellation of symptoms and pathology commonly seen in the overhead athlete. Athletes in many sports may experience VEO and other common pathologies related to the high repetitive stresses generated by the overhead throwing motion.

What injuries can result from a valgus overload mechanism?

The valgus overload is then accentuated, and excessive valgus moments may lead to stretch of the other medial structures, resulting in ulnar neuritis, flexor-pronator mass tendonopathy, or medial epicondyle apophysitis in the skeletally immature patient.

What are common throwing mechanical errors which contribute to valgus extension overload at the elbow?

Valgus extension overload syndrome of the elbow is common among throwing athletes and commonly results from repetitive valgus torque and deceleration across the elbow occurring during the late acceleration and early follow-through phases of the throwing motion.

How is Veo treated?

First-line treatment for VEO is nonoperative: rest from throwing, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intra-articular steroid injections, assessment of pitching mechanics, and so on.

What kind of elbow pain is valgus overload?

Valgus Extension Overload (also known as Pitcher’s elbow) is a condition characterized by posteromedial elbow pain related to repetitive microtrauma in throwing athletes.

How to treat valgus extension overload in pitchers?

Treatment is usually nonoperative with rest, activity modifications, and injections. Operative resection of osteophytes and loose bodies are indicated in pitchers with persistent symptoms.

Why is elbow imaging important in sports medicine?

In particular, valgus extension overload during the throwing motion can precipitate a cascade of chronic injuries that can be debilitating for both casual and high-performance athletes. Prompt imaging evaluation facilitates accurate diagnosis and appropriate targeted interventions.

What kind of injury can you get to the elbow?

The elbow can be injured as a result of acute trauma, such as a direct blow or a fall onto an outstretched hand or from chronic microtrauma. In particular, valgus extension overload during the throwing motion can precipitate a cascade of chronic injuries that can be debilitating for both casual and high-performance athletes.