Condition: Muscle strains, tears, tweaks, or pulls rank as one of the most frequent baseball injuries. In fact, it’s common to all sports. Damage occurs when undue pressure is placed on muscles whether it be running bases, throwing a ball, or swinging for the fences.
The most common muscle injuries in baseball involve hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and oblique abdominals. The big leg muscles on the front (quadriceps) and back (hamstrings) endure the most stress while running, especially the violent sprints and stops that take place when running bases. The same goes for the calf muscles. Oblique abdominal tend to be associated with power baseball swings since they help twist the torso.
Tears are classified according to three grades: I (mild), II (moderate), and III (severe). Only the grade III necessitate surgery while grade II and III involve physical therapy. Grade I tears can often be played through.
Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, or redness; Pain at rest; Pain when the specific muscle or the joint in relation to the muscle is used; Weakness of the muscle or tendons; Inability to use the muscle.
Diagnosis: Doctors will consult medical history and perform a physical. X-rays are necessary in the event of a history of trauma.
Treatment: Protection from further injury; Ice the muscle area immediately after; Rest the muscle; Compression with an ace bandage (but not tightly); Elevate injured area.
Rehab: Sometimes physical therapy is needed.
IMAGE SOURCE: Creative Commons
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