Pitching, although one of the most enjoyable and respected aspects of baseball and softball, can be incredibly hard on the body. Pitchers are vulnerable to a variety of injuries, which, in most cases must be treated with a combination of prescribed exercises and time away from the pitcher's mound. Common injuries and treatment programs are detailed below:

Oblique Strains

Although a number of pitching injuries are based in the arms and shoulders, the obliques may also be at risk. Oblique strain often occurs when pitchers use improper technique. This injury is incredibly slow to heal and may necessitate an entire season away from the pitcher's mound in order to achieve full recovery.

Everything from coughing to brushing teeth can prove painful in the aftermath of an oblique injury, so it is important to keep movement of the torso to a minimum. Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the strain, but may include stretching, plank exercises and therapeutic massage.

Dead Arm

An unfortunately common occurrence at the beginning of the spring season, dead arm is a direct result of overuse. Although typically not painful, dead arm results in significant weakness, which may make it difficult for a pitcher to deliver the ball with sufficient speed or accuracy. This weakness is typically not a long-term problem, especially if the pitcher backs off for some time and lets the arm recover.

After two weeks of rest, the athlete can be gradually reintroduced, returning to full force after about four weeks. Sports medicine New Haven can hasten this process, as professionals can recommend exercises capable of safely building up strength and preventing future dead arm incidents.

Bicep Tendonitis

Pitching injuries are by no means limited to baseball players. Although the windmill motion used for the typical softball pitch is believed to produce less strain than overhand baseball pitches, there is still plenty of potential for injury.

Softball pitchers most commonly experience bicep tendonitis, which may result from repetitive drills or overuse in the gym. If left untreated for a significant period, this otherwise temporary injury can result in significant tearing or other problems.

From oblique strains to bicep tendonitis, a variety of painful conditions can strike talented baseball and softball pitchers. Recovering from such injuries can be a lengthy process full of down time.

Although frustrating, it is important to follow the targeted advice of sport medicine experts, as this will hasten recovery and the ensuing return to the pitcher's mound.