Tips For Baseball Arm Care

Posted by Brad L.
1
Aug 23, 2015
268 Views
This information can be useful for baseball players, parents, or coaches. Keep in mind there is a difference between soreness and pain, and there are many knowledgable minds out there. Don't be afraid to ask others what they think is best for your arm. However, using some of the following strategies can reduce the risk of baseball arm injuries. 

If you experience pain or soreness from throwing/working out...

Ice
Icing is very important because it reduces swelling in your arm. It is crucial that you begin icing right after shortly after you throw/work out to maximize the effect that it can have. This is especially important for starting pitchers because they are usually putting their arm under the most stress and using it the most. Icing will help starters recover sooner and help prepare them for their next start. 

Effective methods of icing include using an ice pack or bag of ice. When you ice, make sure you apply ice to the sore/painful area for about 15 minutes, then leave the ice off for about 15 minutes. Repeat this process a few times, or how ever many times you feel is necessary. Just remember not to ice too much because that can cause damage to you muscles and joints.

Heat
Using heat is preferable when you are experiencing pain can be used to treat soreness as well. Heat helps increase blood flow to the affected area, which will speed up the healing/recovery process. Heating is similar to using a baseball arm sleeve, as they both enhance blood flow. Some methods of heating include taking a hot shower, using a heat pad, or spending time in a hot tub or jacuzzi. Similar to using ice, you should apply heat for 15 minutes, then leave it off for 15 minutes and repeat the process several times.

Rest
This method may be the most difficult for players, especially pitchers, as they are itching to get back on the field as soon as possible. What players need to understand is that it is okay to miss a game or two in order to get healthy. They shouldn't be running the risk of potentially injuring their arms and being out for an extended period of time. 

For more information on baseball arm care, check out Everything Baseball.
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