Softball Training - Shoulder Injuries in Softball

I received the following email from one of our subscribers:

"Marc,

Quick question please:

Have you noticed an excess number of shoulder injuries and shoulder surgeries?

I was in OKC to watch the WCWS (4th year attending)  and talked with another coach from Mississippi that  told me he sees the same thing.  An awful lot of  players with shoulder injuries.

If so, what do you attribute to this?   50+ weeks a year work and overuse?? Improper stretching along with improper throwing mechanics?

One thing is for sure,  this needs to be addressed at  a national level and coaches need to be educated to  ensure our young female athletes are not damaging  their shoulders and requiring surgery as an expected  part of playing softball!

I did like the note ref Jaeger's Long Toss, Arm Circles  and J Bands warmups before throwing.  I'll have to get  quite a few coaches to tell me they are already using
this type warmup before throwing, as I'm sure my coaches will be reluctant to change unless its well known  in the community.

Jim"

Here is my answer:

Yes, there is an increase in the number of shoulder injuries in our sport.

It is due to many factors:

1) Uni-dimensional athlete

The modern day softball player isn't an athlete anymore;  she is just a good softball player. By that I mean that  nowadays, kids specializes in one sport (softball) too
early and don't participate in other sports. This results in poor overall athletic development, muscular imbalances and overuse of certain muscles (throwing) because of
repetitive use.

2) Improper throwing mechanics

We don't spend enough time reinforcing proper throwing mechanics and many kids end up overcompensating with other muscles which create problems over time.

3) Improper conditioning

Lack of stability, flexibility, and strength in certain muscles will cause problems and lead to overuse injuries. The shoulder is an especially complex and fragile joint.

4) Improper warm-up

A simple small tear one time because of a poor or rushed warm-up is enough to lead to a major should overuse injury that will last months and even longer. The warm-up is
absolutely crucial.

5) Overuse

If you do too much softball without ever giving your body a break, eventually it will break down.

So, what do you need to do to prevent shoulder injuries?

1) Ensure proper overall athletic development
2) Give your break a rest
3) Always warm-up thoroughly, especially the shoulder
4) Fix and optimize throwing mechanics
5) Use shoulder injury prevention exercises
6) Pay attention to any sign or symptoms of shoulder
injuries and seek medical attention early
7) Never ever play through shoulder pain

Looking after your shoulder is one of the most important thing you can do to ensure a long career in this sport.

Who loves ya?

Coach Marc
"Your Softball Peak Performance Coach"