Final answer:
The initial treatment of a juvenile thrower's MCL injury typically involves RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. In severe cases, especially involving the ulnar collateral ligament, surgical repair like Tommy John surgery might be indicated after conservative treatment fails.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initial treatment of a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury in the juvenile thrower can often follow conservative management principles that mirror those used for other ligament injuries. One common methodology is the RICE protocol, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Rest is critical to allow the healing process to begin without further straining the injured ligament. Ice is used to minimize swelling and reduce pain. Compression with an elastic bandage can help control swelling and provide support to the injured area. Elevation of the injured limb above the heart level further helps reduce swelling.
In more severe cases involving the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)—an intrinsic ligament on the medial side of the elbow joint that spans from the medial epicondyle of the humerus to the medial ulna—treatment might require extended rest or even surgical intervention if the ligament is significantly damaged. Surgical procedures, such as Tommy John surgery, are typically reserved for severe or chronic cases and involve reconstructive surgery to repair the damaged ligament.