Why Does My Shoulder Hurt Every Time I Throw?
Shoulder pain while throwing often develops from overuse or improper mechanics that place continuous stress on the joint. Over time, the shoulder strain can lead to rotator cuff injuries, labral tears, or impingement. These conditions cause inflammation, pain, and a reduced range of motion, which makes it difficult to throw effectively.
At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, our doctors conduct a thorough physical examination and order imaging tests to pinpoint the exact cause of your shoulder pain. Depending on the severity of your condition, we offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments. Call 855-321-6784 now to consult with our shoulder experts.
What Are the Common Causes of Shoulder Pain in Throwing Athletes?
Throwing athletes often develop shoulder pain from joint instability, muscle strain, or ligament sprains. In some cases, overhead shoulder pain can result from internal impingement, scapular rotation dysfunction (improper movement of the shoulder blades), or a glenohumeral internal rotation deficit. Rarely, nerve compression or cartilage damage within the joint may also contribute to persistent shoulder discomfort. Here are some additional causes of shoulder pain in throwers:
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
Rotator cuff tendinitis develops when repetitive stress leads to microtears and swelling in the shoulder tendons. It results in dull pain, stiffness, and reduced throwing power.
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Irritation
Constant throwing can inflame the AC joint, which is located where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. In such cases, you may experience pain at the top of your shoulder, which increases with overhead physical activities.
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the shoulder joint become inflamed from repetitive throwing. The irritation causes noticeable swelling, soreness, and stiffness while making it painful to lift the arm repeatedly.
Muscle Imbalance
If you have weak scapular stabilizers or rotator cuff muscles and strong chest or front shoulder muscles, it can create uneven pulling forces. This imbalance disrupts shoulder alignment and causes irritation, fatigue, and pain during repeated throws.
Thoracic Spine Stiffness
Limited mobility in the upper back (thoracic spine) reduces proper shoulder rotation. As a result, the shoulder joint works beyond its normal range to generate a throwing motion. This increases stress on the tendons and surrounding soft tissues, which leads to chronic shoulder pain when throwing.
Can Improper Warm-Up Cause Shoulder Pain While Throwing?
Yes, improper warm-up can cause shoulder pain while throwing. If you perform overhead movements with tight muscles, it places extra strain on the rotator cuff and shoulder joint due to limited flexibility. Without gentle stretching, tendons also get inflamed, which causes soreness, stiffness, and pain that worsens with repeated throwing motions.
In addition, according to the Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation Journal, movements such as arm swings, light band pulls, and shoulder rolls can increase blood flow and flexibility. These exercises help the rotator cuff tendons, shoulder blade, and upper arm muscles to work together smoothly, which reduces the risk of joint strain. Additionally, a consistent warm-up routine also improves throwing mechanics and joint stability. It allows the shoulder joint to move freely through its full range of motion, which helps athletes maintain better control with every throw.
How Does Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit (GIRD) Cause Shoulder Pain?
Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit (GIRD) occurs when tightness in the back of the shoulder joint limits the arm’s ability to rotate inward smoothly. This restriction creates an imbalance that puts extra pressure on the front of the shoulder, leading to pain, inflammation, rotator cuff tears, and labrum irritation over time.
In addition, GIRD also increases the risk of internal impingement, shoulder instability, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. According to the Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow Journal, about 35% to 43% of overhead athletes develop GIRD, with baseball pitchers facing nearly twice the risk. In most cases, orthopedic specialists recommend stretching and strengthening exercises to address GIRD-related shoulder tightness and restore normal function.
Is Biceps Tendonitis Common in Throwing Athletes?
Yes, biceps tendonitis is common among throwing athletes, such as pitchers and tennis players. Repeated throwing places stress on the upper biceps tendon near the shoulder joint. Over time, this strain causes inflammation and small tendon tears, which lead to pain in the front of the shoulder and weakness during overhead movements.
Besides pain and weakness, you may also experience clicking or a catching sensation during movement with biceps tendonitis. These common symptoms often indicate irritation or partial tearing inside the tendon sheath. If left untreated, the condition can progress to tendon rupture, muscle weakness, and the formation of scar tissue, which may limit shoulder function.
At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, our specialists offer same-day imaging tests for the precise diagnosis of biceps tendonitis. Once the condition is diagnosed, we create a personalized treatment plan, which may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Therapeutic injections
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Minimally invasive surgical repair
Contact us now to book your appointment. Our team provides continuous support until your shoulder is completely healed to prevent permanent damage and restore full strength.
Can A SLAP Tear Lead To Shoulder Pain While Throwing?
Yes, a SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior) tear can cause shoulder pain while throwing. It develops when the top part of the shoulder labrum, where the biceps tendon attaches, gets torn from repetitive overhead motion. This injury often results in severe pain, accompanied by clicking or snapping sensations during the throwing motion.
Furthermore, a SLAP tear can also cause loss of throwing velocity and accuracy due to shoulder weakness and instability. When the labrum is damaged, the shoulder socket loses its regular grip on the upper arm bone. This reduces power transfer during the throwing motion, making it difficult to control speed, aim, and follow-through effectively. To treat SLAP tears, orthopedic specialists usually recommend posterior stretching, as it has shown successful outcomes in nearly 66.7% to 90% of athletes.
Can Cross-Training Reduce the Risk of Shoulder Injuries?
Yes, cross-training can reduce the risk of shoulder injuries. It helps maintain shoulder strength by engaging different muscle groups, preventing overuse, and improving overall coordination. For example, combining throwing with swimming can enhance the flexibility of the shoulder joint while giving it time to recover from repeated stress. Here are some other benefits of cross-training that can minimize the risk of shoulder injuries:
- Improves body symmetry and posture
- Develops neuromuscular control
- Increases overall body awareness
- Enhances joint mobility
How Does Laser Therapy Promote Healing in Shoulder Muscles?
To promote healing in shoulder muscles, laser therapy targets damaged cells with concentrated light energy. This activates cellular repair, increases oxygen flow, and improves blood circulation. According to the National Library of Medicine, laser therapy also reduces swelling by limiting the release of substances that trigger inflammation and pain. It also boosts collagen production, which helps rebuild and strengthen injured tendons. However, the effects of laser therapy are often short-term and may require additional treatments or rehabilitation for lasting results.
Can Trigger Point Therapy Help Ease Shoulder Pain?
Yes, trigger point therapy can help ease shoulder pain by releasing tight muscle knots that restrict movement and cause discomfort. It also improves blood circulation, reduces tension, and promotes muscle relaxation. This non-invasive treatment option can further help by increasing the range of motion and supporting recovery when combined with strengthening exercises.
Here are different types of trigger point therapies commonly used to relieve shoulder pain:
- Manual trigger point release
- Dry needling
- Spray and stretch technique
- Acupuncture
- Ischemic compression
How Can You Protect Your Shoulder From Future Throwing Injuries?
To protect your shoulder from future throwing injuries, start with a proper warm-up and focus on strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular muscles. Also, maintain flexibility through regular stretching, follow pitch limits, and allow sufficient recovery time between sessions. It is also important to build throwing intensity gradually and avoid overuse to maintain shoulder strength and stability.
In addition, pay close attention to your throwing mechanics, as improper form puts unnecessary stress on the shoulder joint. You should practice throwing with correct motion, which helps maintain shoulder alignment, distributes force evenly, and prevents extra strain on the rotator cuff. Using proper recovery methods, such as ice, massage, or gentle exercises, can further reduce throwing pain and support long-term joint health.
Book A Consultation With Dr. R. Champ Dengenis At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine To Restore Your Shoulder Strength!
If you’re a competitive athlete or enjoy sports as a hobby, shoulder pain while throwing can interfere with your performance and confidence. More importantly, it often signals early signs of injury that can quickly progress into serious shoulder issues. At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, we carefully review your medical history, recovery goals, and activity levels to create a personalized treatment plan.
Our primary goal is to restore shoulder function through conservative care. However, if pain persists, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. R. Champ Dengenis, recommends surgery with minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery. Visit our clinic at 16 East 29th Street, Bayonne, NJ 07002, or call 855-321-6784 to schedule a consultation.
FAQs
Should I Stop Throwing When I Feel Shoulder Pain?
Yes, you should stop throwing immediately when you feel shoulder pain. If you continue playing despite the pain, you may develop severe inflammation and shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff tears. To ease discomfort, apply ice packs and allow your shoulder to rest properly. If pain persists, consult an orthopedic specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment before returning to activity.
Can Tight Chest or Back Muscles Cause Shoulder Pain?
Yes, tight chest or back muscles can cause shoulder pain. When these muscles become tense, they restrict proper movement and alter posture. This imbalance increases stress on the rotator cuff and shoulder joint. Regular stretching, strengthening, and posture correction can help relieve tension and prevent shoulder discomfort during throwing or daily activities.
What Is the Fastest Way to Heal a Shoulder Impingement?
The fastest way to heal a shoulder impingement is to rest and reduce inflammation early. Use ice therapy, gentle stretching, and anti-inflammatory medication as recommended. Additionally, strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular muscles helps restore normal motion. For persistent pain, doctors may recommend a structured rehabilitation program or corticosteroid injections to promote healing.
Can Taping or Bracing Help with Throwing-Related Shoulder Pain?
Yes, taping or bracing can help with throwing-related shoulder pain, as they provide extra support and stability to the shoulder joint. Moreover, these methods limit excessive movement, which reduces stress on the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles. Taping also improves shoulder awareness, helping athletes maintain proper form and prevent further strain during throwing.
What’s the Role of Joint Laxity in Shoulder Pain When Throwing?
Joint laxity, or excessive looseness in the shoulder, increases the risk of pain while throwing. It allows extra movement, which puts pressure on the rotator cuff and surrounding tissues. To prevent pain due to joint laxity, focus on strengthening the stabilizing muscles, improving shoulder control, and maintaining proper technique through consistent training.
How Does Scar Tissue or Adhesions Affect Shoulder Pain in Throwers?
Scar tissue or adhesions significantly impact shoulder pain in throwers by restricting normal movement and reducing flexibility. They make the shoulder feel tight or stuck, which causes pain with every throw. The arm stiffness also forces other muscles to compensate, further increasing strain on the rotator cuff and eventually leading to shoulder injuries.
Can Bad Posture Cause Shoulder Pain When I Throw?
Yes, bad posture can cause shoulder pain when you throw. Rounded shoulders or a slouched posture can pull the shoulder blades out of alignment, restricting smooth joint movement. This poor positioning forces the rotator cuff to overwork during each throw. As a result, the shoulder experiences increased friction, irritation, and fatigue, which can lead to pain and reduced throwing efficiency.
