Rehabilitation of the throwing athlete: where we are in 2014

Abstract

The overhead athlete has unique physical traits and adaptive changes as a result of the repetitive nature of throwing. An effective rehabilitation program depends on an accurate evaluation to determine the causative factors for an athlete's pathology. A treatment program is individualized with specific strengthening and flexibility exercises to achieve dynamic stability that is required for overhead function. In this article the characteristics of the throwing shoulder and specific injuries are described. The rehabilitation program is described in a multiphased approach that allows for the restoration of strength, mobility, endurance, and power to return to sporting activity.

Keywords: Overhead athlete; Rehabilitation; Shoulder.