Avoiding Baseball Injuries – 2014 Major League Baseball All-Star Game

Baseball fans: the 2014 Major League Baseball All-Star Game is just around the corner! This year, the best of the best will face off at Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins, for an exciting five day event culminating in the 85^th All-Star Game on July 15^th!

Baseball players: Whether you play in an organized league, on a regular basis, or just have the odd meet-up on the diamond with friends, before heading out there and putting on the glove, be aware of the fact that baseball can be accompanied by a number of unfortunate pains – so be prepared!

Here is a list of the top 5 baseball injuries, their respective symptoms, and treatment options for each.

• Torn rotator cuff – this is when one or more of the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles is torn. This can be caused by an injury (such as an over extension), or degeneration (repetition), and the severity ranges from a partial tear to a full tear. Pain and inflammation are common symptoms of this type of injury. Treatment can included physical therapy to improve flexibility and the strength of the muscles surrounding the joint, or may require more extensive treatment if the injury is severe.
• Tennis elbow – this is the result of an abrupt or subtle injury to the muscle and tendon area on the outside of the elbow. This manifests as pain, usually worse when shaking your hands or squeezing objects. Treatment may include physical therapy or a custom elbow brace.
• Knee injuries – most commonly caused by an impact against the knee or a sudden twist of the joint which can rip the cartilage in the meniscus, usually resulting in significant pain. Strained or torn ligaments are also common, and are also quite painful and can decrease movement. Treatment includes rest, physical therapy and knee bracing.
• Head injuries – concussions are also one of the most common baseball injuries, and even with a helmet, concussions can occur as a result of a fall or a hit, or of course a baseball to the head. Since they are so difficult to diagnose, the threat of a concussion needs to be examined by a physician right away.
• Wrist injuries – wrist sprains and strains are common in baseball, often due to falls. Wrist tendinitis can also be a problem for many baseball players. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a decrease in the range in motion. Common treatment may include a wrist brace or medication – but always speak to a physician for a diagnosis.

It doesn’t matter if you play at the same level as those players participating in the Major League Baseball All-Star Game or you just like to play on Sunday afternoons, baseball injuries are an unfortunate reality of the game. The best thing that you can do if you suffer an injury is to seek treatment from a sports injury clinic to avoid further injury and decrease pain.

For more about dealing with one of these baseball injuries, please contact Athletic Edge Sports Medicine. Call us today at 416-800-0800.