Our professional staff of physical therapists and athletic trainers is experienced with the evaluation and treatment of sports related injuries. We will work with your physician to develop a customized treatment program specific to your need to recover from injury and reduce the chance of future re-injury.

Injuries to the shoulder, elbow and wrist are common in the throwing athlete. Most of these conditions are minor and respond to rest and relatively conservative treatment plan. However, many of the injuries are related to a repetitive or overuse stress and if not treated and corrected early, can lead to a more significant and serious injury.

To throw…or not to throw???
Community Rehab has developed a program to help you identify what symptoms you should be aware of that can be addressed early and help to prevent a minor condition from becoming a significant problem. Some of the signs include:

• Pain or weakness during or after you throw.
• Any popping, catching, clicking or snapping in your shoulder.
• Any changes in the velocity or control of your throwing.
• Pain with other activities or while you sleep.

But it hurts right here…
There are many types of injuries to the throwing athlete. Some of the more common include:

• Tendonitis or strain to the rotator cuff tendon.
• Strain, stretching or tearing of the ligaments, cartilage, muscles or tendons.
• Bursitis or inflammation.
• Instability of the shoulder or the shoulder blade.
• Tendonitis or strain to the muscles and tendons of the elbow and wrist.

An ounce of prevention…
The best way to stay healthy is to take steps to prevent injury from occurring. Some key elements of injury prevention include:

• PRESEASON CONDITIONING A well-rounded strength and conditioning program that includes flexibility and endurance.
• WARM UP AND COOL DOWN Take an extra ten minutes before and after you practice or compete to ensure your body is ready for activity. Jogging and stretching are excellent for this.
• LISTEN TO YOUR BODY If you feel any changes that affect your performance, find out what is causing the change and address it.
• TOTAL BODY INVOLVEMENT Supporting and stabilizing muscles are as important as the muscles directly involved in the activity. Without a solid base from which to perform, you are at greater risk of injury.
• REMEMBER YOUR RICE! Rest, ice, compression and elevation all work to help reduce pain and inflammation.
• BECOME A STUDENT OF THE GAME Learn the proper techniques and mechanics of the game. Listen to your coaches or the experts regarding performance. They not only serve to improve your game, they help minimize the risk of injury.

At Community Rehab, our objectives for the treatment and rehabilitation of injuries in the throwing athlete include:

• Thorough evaluation of the diagnosis and condition as directed by your physician.
• Treatment to address pain and inflammation of the affected joint.
• Restoration of range of motion to the affected joint, supporting musculature and connective tissues such as ligaments and tendons.
• A progressive strengthening program based upon any muscular weakness or imbalance.
• Instruction in a specific throwing program to address the goals and specific demands of the joint.
• Exercises to promote proper mechanics, strength and endurance.
• Education of both the individual and family to prevent future injury or re-injury

If there are no improvements in your symptoms,
please contact your physician regarding physical therapy.