Throwing athletes, from baseball pitchers to javelin throwers, place tremendous stress on their elbows. The repetitive motions involved in throwing can lead to overuse injuries, pain, and loss of function. At Junction Point Physical Therapy, we provide specialized Sports physiotherapy Grande Prairie to help athletes recover from elbow injuries, prevent future issues, and get back to peak performance.
Common Elbow Injuries in Throwing Athletes
Throwing motions require complex coordination of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist. When the elbow is overused or subjected to poor mechanics, it can result in injuries such as:
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Sprain or Tear: Often referred to as a “Tommy John injury,” this is a common problem in baseball pitchers. It results from repetitive stress on the inner side of the elbow.
Flexor Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons that attach to the inner elbow, usually caused by overuse.
Olecranon Stress Fracture: A small crack in the bony tip of the elbow, typically seen in athletes with repeated throwing motions.
Ulnar Nerve Entrapment: Irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
Physiotherapy Solutions for Elbow Injuries
At Junction Point Physical Therapy, our approach to treating elbow injuries involves a thorough assessment and a personalized treatment plan. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore strength and mobility, and prevent further injury.
Pain Management and Inflammation Reduction
The first step in treatment is managing pain and inflammation. This may involve:
Ice therapy to reduce swelling
Manual therapy to relieve muscle tension
Range of Motion and Flexibility Exercises
Maintaining or restoring full elbow mobility is essential. Our physiotherapists use gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the elbow, forearm, and shoulder, ensuring proper joint function.
Strengthening Exercises
Weakness in the muscles surrounding the elbow and shoulder can lead to instability and recurring injuries. Strengthening programs focus on:
Forearm and wrist strengthening to support the elbow joint
Shoulder and scapular stability exercises to reduce strain on the elbow
Core strengthening for overall body mechanics and injury prevention
Technique Correction and Biomechanical Training
Poor throwing mechanics are a major contributor to elbow injuries. Our therapists use video analysis and functional assessments to identify issues in form. Through targeted drills and movement retraining, we help athletes adopt safer and more efficient throwing techniques.
Progressive Return to Sport
Once strength, flexibility, and mechanics improve, we gradually introduce sport-specific movements. Our therapists monitor progress closely, ensuring athletes can return to their sport confidently and safely.
Preventing Elbow Injuries
Prevention is key for throwing athletes. Our physiotherapists provide education on proper warm-ups, cool-down routines, and workload management. Regular strength and flexibility training, combined with biomechanical assessments, can significantly reduce the risk of future injuries.
Get Back in the Game with Junction Point Physical Therapy
If you’re a throwing athlete dealing with elbow pain, don’t wait to seek help. At Junction Point Physical Therapy in Grande Prairie, we’re dedicated to helping you recover and perform. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and start your personalized treatment plan.
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