Throwers Shoulder
What is Thrower’s Shoulder?
The shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint involving the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). It has several key structures, including the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder, and the labrum, a type of cartilage that deepens the socket and helps keep the ball in place. The biceps tendon also plays a role as it attaches to the labrum.
Thrower’s shoulder, also known as pitcher’s shoulder, is a term used to describe a range of injuries that occur from repetitive overhead and throwing motions. It’s common in athletes who participate in sports such as baseball, softball, volleyball, and tennis. The throwing motion places tremendous stress on the shoulder, specifically the rotator cuff and labrum, leading to a variety of potential injuries.
As an expert shoulder surgeon in the Detroit area, Dr. Ben Mayo specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of thrower’s shoulder. When determining the best treatment plan, Dr. Mayo considers multiple factors including your activity level, goals, and injury severity to find the best treatment for you. Contact Dr. Mayo’s team today to schedule a consultation at one of his offices in Livonia or Sterling Heights.
Thrower’s shoulder injuries usually develop gradually due to the repetitive stresses placed on the shoulder during the throwing motion. The high-speed and forceful nature of the overhead throw, particularly the ‘cocking’ and ‘acceleration’ phases, can lead to micro-tears in the rotator cuff and labrum, causing inflammation, pain, and, over time, more serious injuries such as tears.
Symptoms of thrower’s shoulder typically include:
- Pain during or after throwing
- Decreased throwing speed or strength
- Loss of control and accuracy when throwing
- Aching in the shoulder after activity
- Feeling of instability or looseness in the shoulder
Minor cases of thrower’s shoulder can often improve with rest, physical therapy, and a careful return to throwing. However, more severe or persistent cases may require surgical intervention. It’s essential to seek proper treatment to prevent long-term complications and re-injury.
Thrower’s shoulder is diagnosed based on a combination of your symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-ray or MRI. The doctor may test your range of motion, strength, and stability in the shoulder, as well as specific positions that may reproduce your symptoms.
Treatment for thrower’s shoulder depends on the severity of the injury. Non-surgical treatments are the first line of treatment and include rest, physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroid injections. When these treatments are insufficient, or if there’s a significant tear in the shoulder structures, surgery may be necessary.
Surgery is generally considered for those who do not improve with conservative treatment, or who have significant structural damage. The timing depends on various factors including the specific injury, the athlete’s age and level of competition, and the time of the sports season.
The type of surgery depends on the exact injury but may include arthroscopic rotator cuff debridement or repair, labrum repair, SLAP repair, or biceps tenodesis depending on the affected structures.
Recovery from thrower’s shoulder surgery varies, but it generally involves rest, followed by a phased physical therapy program to regain shoulder strength and mobility. Return to throwing activities may take several months and is usually gradual to avoid re-injury.
Schedule a shoulder consultation
Experience comprehensive, personalized care under the expertise of Dr. Ben Mayo, one of the best shoulder surgeons in the Detroit area. Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of thrower’s shoulder, he utilizes the latest research and techniques to enhance your path to recovery. Dr. Mayo’s clinics, located in Livonia and Sterling Heights, serve patients across Detroit and the nearby areas such as Troy, Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, Novi, and Royal Oak. Arrange your consultation with Dr. Mayo today.
At a Glance
Ben Mayo, MD
- Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
- Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
- Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
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