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Shoulder pain in the overhead throwing athlete
Shane T Seroyer1, Shane J Nho, Bernard R Bach
1Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.
Sports Health
|September 28, 2012
Summary
Understanding the throwing motion and shoulder forces is key for treating overhead athletes. Conservative management and proper conditioning can prevent surgery and preserve long-term shoulder health.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics of Throwing
Background:
- Overhead throwing athletes experience unique shoulder stresses.
- Shoulder pain in throwers can stem from various sources like scapular dysfunction, glenohumeral pathology, rotator cuff issues, or neurovascular problems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an anatomic approach to diagnosing and treating common shoulder pain etiologies in overhead throwing athletes.
- To emphasize the importance of understanding the throwing motion and associated forces.
Main Methods:
- Review of common causes of shoulder pain in overhead athletes.
- Anatomic focus on diagnosis and treatment strategies.
- Emphasis on clinical presentation and management.
Main Results:
- Scapular dysfunction, glenohumeral pathology, rotator cuff issues, and neurovascular structures are common pain sources.
- Proper throwing mechanics, stretching, and conditioning programs can reduce injury risk.
- Early detection and conservative treatment, including rest and rehabilitation, can often avoid surgery.
Conclusions:
- Prevention of injury through proper training and mechanics is paramount for long-term athlete health.
- Conservative management is preferred over surgical intervention when possible.
- A thorough understanding of the throwing motion is essential for effective treatment.
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