Arizona District Three Little League: District Three News: Stop Sports Injuries - Baseball

Overuse injuries — especially those related to the UCL and shoulder — are preventable. Some tips to keep you in the game throughout your life include:

• Warm up properly by stretching, running, and easy, gradual throwing

• Rotate playing other positions besides pitcher

• Concentrate on age-appropriate pitching

• Adhere to pitch count guidelines, such as those established by Little League Baseball

• Avoid pitching on multiple teams with overlapping seasons

• Don’t pitch with elbow or shoulder pain, if the pain persists, see a doctor

• Don’t pitch on consecutive days

• Don’t play year-round

• Never use a radar gun

• Communicate regularly about how your arm is feeling and if there is pain

• Develop skills that are age appropriate

• Emphasize control, accuracy, and good mechanics

• Master the fastball first and the change-up second, before considering breaking pitches

• Speak with a sports medicine professional or athletic trainer if you have any concerns about injuries or prevention strategies