Intersting article on GIRD for thowers

interesting read. Anywhere we can find the exercises they are referring to.

As explained in the article, GIRD is a result of excessive overhand throwing. Internal Rotation Range of motion is lost at the expense of External Rotation during the throw. Sleeper stretch is one of the most common stretches performed to help gain back internal rotation. Elbow extension is also another good stretch to utilize since the elbow extension range of motion is lost as well. I have a PDF if you are interested that shows these two stretches as well as a few other pre and post throwing exercises. Post your email and I can send it over.

Thanks,

Austin

Austin, have you seen Mike Reinold's thoughts about the sleeper stretch?

Bulldog19,

I have read it and he does bring up very good points about the sleeper. I've also read many studies showing the sleeper increases internal rotation range of motion, but again, does this actually prevent injury in the overhead athlete or does it just lead to more instability? Technique of the stretch is very important as well. It's one of those exercises that should be given as needed and case by case. I think the cross body stretch works as well. This may be my new sleeper after going over some of the research, however I will still incorporate the sleeper as needed.

From my experience, I have had athletes with GIRD increase their range of motion and become pain free in throwing with the sleeper stretch included in their programs... But then again, is this solely contributed to the sleeper, or is it their other rehab exercises/cross body stretches that are contributing to this?

I'm also wondering how he is measuring tightness in the posterior capsule.. position etc. But I'll have to email him to find out.

Thanks for the response

what is the sleeper stretch because i have gird right now and actually almost done with my period of not pitching. about ready to start light session of bullpen. My pt wants me to to see where were at and asked me to throw a bullpen. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiFRTrywbW4 There you be.

defiantly an interesting read. Mentions he got many of his ideas from attending a pitching clinic held by Ron Wolforth however some of the thought process and techniques carried out in his plan go slightly against Wolforth's teaching. such as the limiting of the curve balls and off speed as well as the picture of the individual modeling the drill is displaying both forearm flyout as well as an outward facing hand which in that position would add increase stress to the anterior shoulder.

 

 notice in the attacted pictures how roger clemens has his forearm inside of 90 degrees while scott kazmir has it outside. clemens = minimal arm issues. kazmir= whole mess of issues, lucky found his way back to Wolforth and has been getting some help.