Baseball remains one of America’s most beloved sports, but for many players, especially pitchers, it can take a serious toll on the shoulder. In New York City, where athletes compete at elite levels, overuse injuries are a common issue. Dr. Jonathan Glashow, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and Clinical Associate Professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, offers expert care in diagnosing and treating baseball-related shoulder injuries.
Common Shoulder Injuries in Baseball Players
Baseball players, particularly pitchers, are prone to a variety of shoulder injuries due to the repetitive, high-velocity motion involved in throwing. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Rotator Cuff Tears: Partial or complete tearing of the tendons that stabilize the shoulder.
- Labral Tears: Damage to the cartilage that lines the shoulder socket, especially the superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) tear.
- Shoulder Impingement: Inflammation caused when the shoulder muscles are pinched during motion.
- Bursitis and Tendinitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs and tendons in the shoulder due to repetitive use.
Young athletes are particularly vulnerable, with studies showing that over 40% of youth pitchers experience shoulder pain by the end of the season.
Why Pitch Counts Are Crucial
Limiting pitch counts has become a key preventive measure in reducing shoulder injuries. Pitching too frequently or throwing too many pitches in a single game increases the risk of overuse injuries. According to the American Sports Medicine Institute, young pitchers who throw more than 100 innings per year are 3.5 times more likely to sustain a serious shoulder or elbow injury.
Monitoring pitch counts helps protect the shoulder’s structural integrity and ensures adequate recovery time. Coaches and parents should follow pitch count guidelines based on age and ensure players get proper rest between games.
Treatment Options for Baseball Shoulder Injuries
At Dr. Glashow’s orthopedic and sports medicine practice in NYC, patients benefit from a full spectrum of treatment options:
- Non-Surgical Treatments: Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and ultrasound-guided cortisone injections.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Advanced arthroscopic procedures for rotator cuff repair, labral repair, and decompression.
- Rehabilitation Programs: Personalized post-treatment plans to help athletes regain strength, mobility, and return to play safely.
Dr. Glashow is known for using cutting-edge techniques and state-of-the-art technology to treat both professional and amateur athletes. His extensive experience includes treating members of major sports teams and Olympians.
Why Choose Dr. Jonathan Glashow in NYC
With decades of experience in orthopedic shoulder surgery, Dr. Glashow has built a reputation for excellence. Patients appreciate his thorough, patient-centered approach and his commitment to helping athletes return to peak performance. As a leader in the field, he combines academic insight with clinical precision, making him a top choice for sports injury care in Manhattan.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain from throwing or suspect an overuse injury, don’t delay treatment. Contact Dr. Glashow’s NYC office today to schedule an expert evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
