Play It Smart
Many children will be taking to the field this summer to play America's classic pastime—baseball. Keep your young player healthy and injury free by following these recommendations
Pre-season health
Get a complete sports physical before the season starts. We'll assess your child's strength, flexibility and overall health to be sure he/she is ready to play.
Warm-up
Start good habits early and be sure they warm up before practices and games. A light aerobic warm up will get blood moving to the muscles and ligaments and help prevent injury. Go through a routine that targets the same muscles they'll use on the field.
Ease into throws and swings
Here in the north, spring can be cold. If your child starts throwing or swinging hard when his/her body is cold, injury may occur. Have them gradually increase distance and velocity to loosen up first.
Proper throwing
Teach proper throwing mechanics early, and young pitchers will have a reduced chance of injury down the road. Address these four areas when throwing:
Balance and control will reduce stress to the shoulder, elbow and back.
Pitchers should rotate the arm, shoulder and torso together to reduce stress on the shoulder and elbow.
The elbow should be shoulder level when throwing.
Excessive throwing will reduce a pitcher's career. Know the quantity and style of pitch your child should be throwing for his/her age group. Practicing curve balls, sliders or any off speed pitches too early in their development will cause injury. See USA Baseball pitching recommendations.
Safety gear
Safety equipment will prevent or reduce the severity of injuries. Players should always wear the appropriate safety gear for their position, including helmets, eyewear, catcher's gear and molded cleats.
Fluids
Reduce the chance of heat stroke by encouraging players to drink fluid at every break, even if they don't feel thirsty.
Take these steps to help your child or team have a fun, injury free baseball season.
For more information on throwing mechanics, contact Mike LaMere, Sports Medicine Outreach Supervisor/Throwing Clinic Coordinator, at michaell@prevea.com.