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Apr 20, 2016 / Sports Medicine
Taking Care of Your Throwing Athlete – Sports Medicine
We know that younger throwers have less problems, and that trouble for pitchers typically begins around the age of 12. At this time, young baseball players are becoming involved in more than one team, they are growing rapidly, and they are trying to throw faster and harder. Chuck Wyatt, R.N., C.P.N.P., says to support your young athlete in these ways:
- Follow pitch count and rest guidelines.
- Include fast or “hot” throws from other positions including middle infielders.
- Consider working with a pitching coach. Some evidence shows that poor form may cause problems.
- Learn proper shoulder strengthening and flexibility exercises.
- Encourage him to speak up about symptoms.
- Teach him not to throw when he is in pain.
For information about elbow injury prevention and elbow problems in the throwing athlete, please visit our Sports Medicine page.