Because of this, subtle abnormalities can lead toshoulder painand discomfort when you are throwing or afterward.
This article reviews the mechanics of the throwing motion and reasons it may cause shoulder pain.
The labrum must stabilize the ball in the socket of the shoulder.
Jose Luis Pelaez / Getty Images
The shoulder blade rotation must coordinate with the arm to ensure mobility.
The various muscles and tendons that control the movement of the shoulder blade impact movements, including throwing.
Abnormalities of any part of this complex linkage can lead to shoulder dysfunction and ultimately to pain when throwing.
It’s helpful to find a healthcare provider who is familiar with throwing mechanics and shoulder injuries.
They can best determine if there is a structural abnormality that needs to be addressed.
Your provider will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical examination.
However, MRI can be very helpful in throwing athletes.
Treatment
Most people who experience the spontaneous onset of pain with throwing can improve with non-surgical treatments.
The earliest phase of treatment is resting the joint and reducing inflammation.
Treatment can be targeted to the problem.
Usually, a physical therapist can guide you back to full shoulder mobility and strength.
A structured shoulder stretching and strengthening program may help.
Physical therapists often focus onscapularmobility when managing shoulder joint problems.
Exercises may involve:
Most cases of shoulder pain when throwing will improve with supervised therapy.
OrthoInfo from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Shoulder Impingement/Rotator Cuff Tendinitis.
2016;11(2):279-301.
