Stiffness In The Posterior Shoulders In Youth Baseball Pitchers

Shoulder pain is a common complaint from baseball pitchers of all ages, according to the Hughston Foundation. Shoulder pain or stiffness in pitchers can be cause for concern or simply a normal event that occurs after pitching. It is important to understand the differences so you know when to rest and take care of your arm.

Normal Pain

Some pain is not cause for concern for pitchers of all ages, including youth pitchers. After pitching, delayed onset muscle soreness, DOMS, is very common in the shoulder. This usually develops the next day or 24 hours after you pitch for an extended number of pitches, which is usually at least 20. This pain should feel more like a soreness or stiffness and should only hurt when you move your shoulder. Running, stretching and simply letting DOMS clear up before you throw again normally does not lead to pain or soreness of more than two to three days.

Other Issues

Other pain and stiffness in the shoulders of youth pitchers should be taken very seriously. Pain while pitching or any sharp, shooting pains could be a sign of an injury or potential for an injury. Treat such pains with rest and get a medical exam if the problem does not subside. Youth pitchers should never pitch with pain. If pain ensues, it is important to stop throwing and immediately leave the game.

Sources of Stiffness or Pain

Shoulder pain can come from a variety of sources in the arm, according to Hughston. It can come from muscles, ligaments, tendons and even bones. Bone pain is rare in older pitchers but quite common in youth. The condition known as Little Leaguer's shoulder refers to a bone separating from the growth plate. For extended pain, it is important for young pitchers to get an evaluation from a doctor or orthopedic specialist.

Preventing and Relieving Stiffness

Coaches and parents can do several things to prevent shoulder pain and stiffness, such as limiting the number of pitches and mound appearances per week. USA Baseball has a chart that recommends youth pitchers throw no more than 1,000 pitches per season and 3,000 annually. Icing the arm after pitching, stretching before and after throwing and staying in good shape can also help prevent injuries.