An overuse injury occurs when the joint receives too much stress from a physical activity. Children and teens are more at risk of these injuries because their bones and muscles are still developing.
The common types of shoulder overuse injuries in throwing athletes include:
- Bursitis: inflammation of the fluid sac that cushions and lubricates the shoulder joint
- Tendinitis: inflammation of muscle tendons that cross the shoulder joint
- Muscle strain
- Impingement syndrome: rubbing and/or pinching of tendons or bursa in the shoulder joint
Throwing prevention tips:
- Pain in the shoulder and elbow are not normal. Do not throw through pain.
- Don’t pitch year-round. Take 2-3 months off.
- Abide by pitch counts and innings pitched per game.
- Develop proper throwing mechanics as early as possible.
- Warm-up prior to throwing and strengthen the shoulder girdle and rotator cuff muscles in the off-season and during the season.
- If pain persists, please contact your athletic trainer for an injury evaluation.