rehabilitation of the overhead athlete

Overhead athletes face unique injuries due to the extraordinary demands they put on the shoulder and elbow complexes subsequent to the tremendous forces that are generated. There is a delicate balance needed between mobility and functional stability.

Overhead injuries are those that deal with your: shoulder capsule, rotator cuff, labrum, scapula, elbow, UCL, wrist, and more. Injuries can include: torn muscles, sprained or torn ligaments, tendinitis, fractures, and more.

Overhead injuries typically occur due to: improper warm-up and recovery techniques, muscle weakness or tightness, poor coordination of muscles during the throw, poor mechanics (the kinetic chain! this starts from the feet up!) or large increases in throwing volume.

It is crucial to regain the proper amount of mobility, flexibility, and strength in your arm in a safe and effective manner in order to return to the level of performance you had reached prior to your injury. This is why overhead injury rehab is essential!

At Vitality Rehab and Performance, LLC, we take a holistic approach to your injury. First, we perform a comprehensive, whole-body evaluation to identify the cause of your injury. Second, we regain the appropriate mobility and flexibility needed. Then, we strengthen and stabilize the injured area. Finally, we transition back into sport-specific activity and an interval throwing program to ensure safe return to sport.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Vitality Rehab & Performance, LLC collaborates with strength & conditioning coaches, pitching coaches, and other members of the sport healthcare team to optimize your care. We believe in establishing effective habits and long-term routines to minimize the risk of re-injury. We achieve this by creating and reviewing individualized pre- and post-throwing protocols, strength and conditioning routines, and biofeedback factors (ie sleep, nutrition, screen time, hydration, etc.).

Are you struggling with arm pain when throwing? Give us a call today!