How to Help Prevent Injuries for Baseball Players
The other day I was watching an online video about the prevention of little league pitching injuries. There were many facts and figures presented in this video to help educate people on how to reduce injuries in the young athlete’s body. Overall, I was very pleased with the presentation because the presenter, Dr. Mike Reinold – Physical Therapist of the Boston Red Sox, was able to provide great evidence to support the idea that many little league-pitching injuries can be prevented if we appropriately manage our young athletes.
Now, I want to elaborate on it and discuss how all baseball players can be more aware of how to maximize athletic performance and reduce the risk of injury.
5 Ways to Help Prevent Injuries for Baseball Players
Body Rest
– Rest your body approximately 2-3 months throughout the year by either not playing a sport, or playing a different sport during the year. It is extremely important to listen to the signs and symptoms of the athlete, such as pain, fatigue, instability, etc….
Stick to Your Pitch Count!
– Nobody will escape the forces that are placed on our bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, etc… during sport related activity. As a result we must consider a couple of factors, 1) The number of pitches per game and per week an athlete is throwing and 2) The structurally immature state of the young athlete’s body, because full growth and strength has yet to occur. Remember, being smart and safe will prolong and maximize an athlete’s career.
Do Not Be a Pitcher and Catcher
– Consider the number of pitches a pitcher throws per game, and then add that to the number of times a catcher needs to toss the ball back to the pitcher. If you have one athlete play both of these positions multiple times per week then the chance of injury significantly increases. Instead an athlete who pitches should consider playing the outfield, because the outfielder does not need to throw the ball as much as the pitcher and catcher.
Receive Good Coaching
– Work with a coach who will consider the individual needs of the athlete. Many times the athlete knows best and that means their words should be heard. A coach who can listen and provide instruction for good technique may be considered irreplaceable.
Personalized Strengthening Program
– It is of most importance to get our young athletes on a good and effective strengthening program because of the number of muscular imbalances in a young athlete’s body. If these muscular imbalances are not addressed then there is a higher chance for injury.
At Specialized Orthopedic Physical Therapy all of the physical therapists are skilled in correcting these muscular imbalances in order to maximize the athlete’s full athletic potential. In addition, Specialized Orthopedic has a pre-season pitching program run by the owner, Jason. Jason, who is a former pitcher, has experience working with Professional, Collegiate, and High School athletes as a physical therapist. So feel free to give us a call and schedule an appointment.