SpringfieldNewsSun.com

(HealthDay News) -- Baseball season may be months away, but "pitchers and catchers" practice really isn't far off.

So, it's never too early to learn how to prevent elbow injuries, namely, Little Leaguers' Elbow.

This injury usually occurs when the repetitive throwing by a pitcher creates a strong pull on elbow tendons and ligaments.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that Little Leaguers' Elbow is serious, especially when repeated pulling tears the ligament and tendon away from the bone. Symptoms may include elbow pain, restricted range of motion and locking of the elbow joint.

If players experience any of these problems, they should refrain from the activity and apply ice packs to bring down swelling. If these options don't help the condition, surgery may be necessary.