Spring has sprung, and with that comes one thing that we can count on every year: America’s Pastime making its return after the long winter months. Baseball is a wonderful sport that can be played by very young children and people into their later adult years as well. However, despite being a low-contact sport, baseball still carries a potential for injury because of the unnatural motions that are commonplace during gameplay, as well as stress-related injuries from repeated motions.

Swinging a bat, pitching at top speed, and remaining in the catcher’s position for long periods of time are a few examples of where baseball injuries arise. In this blog, we will discuss the types of injuries MidAmerica Orthopaedics sees most often related to baseball and how they can be treated to get you back on the field as fast as possible.

Baseball Injury #1: Shoulder Injuries

Shoulder injuries are very common in baseball, especially among pitchers. The most common types of shoulder injuries include rotator cuff injuries and labral tears. Symptoms of a shoulder injury include pain, weakness, and limited mobility. Treatment for shoulder injuries can include physical therapy, rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and, in some cases, surgery.

To prevent shoulder injuries, it's important to do exercises that strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint. Stretching before and after games can also help prevent injury.

If you have experienced a shoulder injury – whether it is severe like a rotator cuff tear or minor like a strain – don’t hesitate to make an appointment at our Hand to Shoulder Clinic or Immediate Care Clinic at your convenience.

Baseball Injury #2: Elbow Injuries

Elbow injuries are also common in baseball players, especially pitchers. The most common types of elbow injuries include medial epicondylitis (also known as golfer's elbow) and ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears. Symptoms of an elbow injury include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment for elbow injuries can include physical therapy, rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and, in some cases, surgery. If surgery is recommended, it can mean a lengthy recovery for pitchers, however, there are several strong precedents for pitchers tearing their UCLs and returning to their prior form after surgery. For example, reigning Cy Young Award Winner and World Series Champion Justin Verlander turned in the best season of his career in 2022 at age 39, and that came after missing a whole season in 2021 after getting elbow surgery.

To prevent these elbow injuries, it's important to follow proper pitching mechanics and not to overuse the arm. Pitchers should also do exercises that strengthen the muscles around the elbow joint.

Baseball Injury #3: Knee Injuries

Knee injuries can occur in baseball players, especially those who play outfield or base running. The most common types of knee injuries include ligament tears and meniscus tears. Similar to shoulder and elbow injuries, symptoms of a knee injury include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment for knee injuries vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Consult with a specialist at MidAmerica Orthopaedics to see what route is best for your needs.

To prevent knee injuries, it's important to do exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee joint. Stretching before and after games can also help prevent injury.

Baseball Injury #4: Ankle Injuries

Ankle injuries can occur in baseball players, especially those who play infield or base running. The most common types of ankle injuries include sprains and fractures. Symptoms of an ankle injury include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment for ankle injuries can include physical therapy, rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and, in some cases, surgery.

To prevent ankle injuries, it's important to do exercises that strengthen the muscles around the ankle joint. Proper footwear can also help prevent injury. If you have further questions, visit our Foot and Ankle Clinic and one of our fellowship-trained physicians will provide you with the compassionate care you deserve.

Baseball Injury #5: Hamstring Injuries

Hamstring injuries can occur in baseball players, especially those who play outfield or base running. The most common types of hamstring injuries include strains and tears. Symptoms of a hamstring injury include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment for hamstring injuries can include physical therapy, rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and, in some cases, surgery.

To prevent hamstring injuries, it's important to do exercises that strengthen the muscles around the hamstring. Stretching before and after games can also help prevent injury.

In conclusion, baseball is a great sport, but it can put a lot of stress on the body. To prevent injury, it's important to do exercises that strengthen the muscles around the joints, stretch before and after games, and follow proper techniques. If you do experience an injury, it's important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we have a team of experts who can help you with your injury and get you back to playing as soon as possible.