03/30/2026
When working with pitchers coming back from an arm injury, we follow a specific return-to-throw checklist to ensure a safe and effective return-to-competition.
The first box on the checklist before ANY return to throwing is a sufficient range of motion & clinical exam, such as 👇
• Total shoulder range of motion must be symmetrical (within ~5° side to side)�• Cross-body adduction should hit ~90°�• Flexion (scap pinned & unpinned) must be symmetrical (within ~5° side to side)�• Elbow flexion + extension must match baseline�• AND a clean clinical exam (no pain with stress testing)
👉 Here’s the reality…
Most players skip this.
They jump straight into a throwing program because:�“I feel good”�“My arm doesn’t hurt anymore”
But “feeling good” ≠being ready.
If you’re off by 15–20° range of motion, unable to effectively load in the weight room or insufficient rotator cuff or grip strength…�you’re setting yourself up for another setback.
⚠️ This is EXACTLY why arm pain keeps coming back.
Instead 👇�• Measure your baseline�• Compare side-to-side�• Rebuild deficits BEFORE you ramp up throwing
Because the goal isn’t just getting back…
It’s staying on the field for the rest of the year.
📩 DM me “THROW” and I’ll help you figure out if you’re actually ready to start throwing again