A recent study followed 481 pitchers for 10 years, found that young pitchers who threw more than 100 innings in a year were 3.5 times more likely to be injured than their fellow players who pitched less. Several years ago, Little League International implemented a mandatory pitch count to protect pitchers' arms and more recently it announced a "rest rule" for pitchers. The Centers for Disease Control reports more than 5 million children under the age of 18 suffer a sports-related injury every year with about half of these due to overuse. Terrance Sgroi, a physical therapist with Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers has some advice for parents.
More about Accelerated Rehabilitation Center's video throwing analysis:
Using a high speed (500+ frames per second) camera and Dartfish ProSuite software, a specially-trained physical therapist or athletic trainer conducts a 20-point biomechanical evaluation, identifies injury risk factors and provides technique recommendations.
To schedule an overhead throwing evaluation or for information on pricing, call 847-475-1630 or log on to www.acceleratedrehab.com and click on Specialty Programs.
Throwing Injury Prevention Tips
- Pain is not normal in the elbow or shoulder. Never throw through pain.
- Don't pitch year-round. Take minimum of 2-3 months off.
- Abide by pitch counts/innings pitched in every game.
- Develop proper mechanics as early as possible
- Warm up, stretch and condition before throwing.
- Seek a doctor or physical therapist if pain persists.
About Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers
Chicago-based Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers is a premier provider of a wide array of comprehensive patient services and specialized rehabilitation programs. Since 1989, Accelerated has grown to over 230 outpatient rehabilitation centers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Wisconsin, Ohio and Arizona, becoming the top choice for many professional athletes, large employers and busy professionals. For more information about Accelerated, call 877-97-REHAB, or visit www.acceleratedrehab.com.
