Throwing Injuries

There are several sports around the world, including cricket, baseball and softball, that utilise throwing as a key component of the game. The repetitive throwing associated with these sports places the shoulder in extreme positions in combination with tremendous stress. If not properly monitored, this can lead to various injuries at the shoulder, elbow and wrist.

Common Throwing Injuries

Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and facilitating shoulder movement. Overuse or improper throwing mechanics can lead to strains, tears, or inflammation in the rotator cuff, causing pain and restricted shoulder mobility.

Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injuries: UCL injuries commonly affect baseball pitchers. Repetitive stress on the elbow during the throwing motion can lead to partial or complete tears of the UCL. Athletes may experience pain, swelling, and a decrease in throwing performance.

Labral Tears: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket, providing stability to the shoulder joint. Overhead throwing motions can cause labral tears, resulting in shoulder pain, decreased range of motion, and a feeling of instability in the shoulder.

Prevention Strategies

In order to minimise your risk of sustaining a throwing-related injury, there are a few things you can put in place:

• Warm-Up and Stretching – Proper warm-up exercises and stretching before the game or practice session can help prepare the muscles for the strain of throwing.
• Proper Technique and Training – Learning and practising proper throwing techniques can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Coaches should emphasise the importance of correct technique, including proper body and arm mechanics.
• Improve Overall Strength and Conditioning – Building strength in the muscles surrounding the shoulder and elbow joints can provide added support and stability. Focus on exercises that target the rotator cuff, shoulder, and arm muscles.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

In the case of a throwing-related injury, seeking early advice from a qualified physiotherapist is essential. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, your physiotherapist will outline a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and deficits. Rehabilitation may include rest, manual therapy, as well as exercise to regain full strength and mobility. It is best to implement a gradual return to throwing and gameplay, to minimise your risk of re-injury and return to full performance.

Return to Throwing Programs

After a break from sport (either due to an off-season or injury) it is important to gradually progress the volume and intensity of your throwing in order to prevent further injury. Your physiotherapist can guide you on a Return to Throwing Program to progress their athletes from no-throwing through to normal training.

Conclusion

While throwing sports can offer many different benefits, knowing the potential risks of these activities is essential. Players can avoid getting hurt by understanding common injuries and implementing preventive strategies. Proper warm-up, technique, conditioning, timely recovery and rehabilitation are vital to enjoying these sports safely and maintaining a healthy shoulder joint long-term.

For specific advice please consult your physiotherapist with an interest in throwing injuries.