Athletics: Throwing

Abstract

Shot put, discus, hammer, and javelin throwers use the kinetic chain to transfer energy from the lower extremities through the pelvis, trunk, shoulder, arm, wrist, hand, and finally, into the implement to generate maximum force. Therefore, all of these regions are susceptible to injuries, in case of breakdown in the chain. However, there is a paucity of data reporting specific injury type, rate, and mechanism of throwing injuries in literature. Most upper and lower extremity injuries can be managed nonoperatively with rehabilitation while surgical outcomes are often poor in shoulder and elbow pathology, especially with regard to superior labral tear from anterior to posterior (SLAP) repair. Shoulder rehabilitation programs focus on correcting the cause of the dysfunction and pain with particular focus on re-establishing full range of motion (ROM) and dynamic shoulder stability and implementing a progressive resistance exercise program to fully restore strength and local muscle endurance of the shoulder and scapular musculature. Finally, the focus on prevention is reducing risk factors and practicing and competing with proper technique.