Why Arm Care Consults for the Throwing Athlete?

First and foremost, injuries among overhead throwing athletes are at an all-time high. Case in point, the incidence of Tommy John elbow surgery among teenagers is the highest it has ever been. This is an alarming trend and should be a great cause for concern.

My background as a physical therapist, baseball coach and college baseball player have contributed to my desire and knowledge base on this very topic. I want to help provide the best quality care if such injuries arise but also want to help with diagnosis and prevention.

As mentioned, arm injuries are very common and the majority of throwing athletes have had arm pain at some point in their career.

Possible reasons for arm pain/injuries include:

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  Exceeding recommended pitch counts

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  Throwing year round

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  Poor throwing mechanics

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  The one that often gets overlooked-Muscle Imbalance

Why the imbalance?

This problem exists in part due to the tremendous force that is placed on the body when throwing a baseball. It can take up to 1.5x bodyweight of eccentric muscle force to slow the arm down during a throw which can cause excessive stress to the tissue. Also, throwing by nature is highly repetitive, using the same muscles throw after throw which can contribute to imbalance in mobility and strength.

Why does it Matter?

Multiple research studies indicate a direct correlation between loss of range of motion/strength and increased injury risk for throwers. One study of 23 high school pitchers demonstrated that of the 12 who experienced pain, ALL had significantly decreased strength of the scapular muscles and rotator cuff. Another study of pro pitchers indicated a loss of only 5 degrees of external range of motion was associated with 200% increased chance of shoulder injury!

The Good News!

Early detection of imbalance/deficits can help prevent more serious injuries from occurring. Even better… We are offering Free Arm Care Consults here at RCPT or at Dbat in Marion. We will provide a 15 minute screen to assess strength and mobility to determine if there are any deficits that are concerning. We can then discuss if specific exercises or a comprehensive program is advised.

Research has shown that such strengthening programs have been shown to reduce injury risk for the throwing athlete. I am excited to provide preseason arm care programs that would be uniquely tailored towards the individual if indicated by the consult and desired by the athlete.

CONSULTS PERFORMED BY: Justin Wagner, PT, MPT

Justin is originally from Marion and was an All-State Baseball player at Linn Mar High School. Justin went on to play baseball at St. Ambrose University where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Biology and Masters in Physical Therapy. Justin’s passion for baseball as a player and coach has led him to a special interest in properly training the throwing athlete. His 20 plus years of experience as a physical therapist in combination with performing numerous youth, high school and collegiate arm care consults has made him an expert in the mechanics of the throwing athlete.

Please contact us today to get your free arm care consult scheduled! 319-295-8899.