Back Pain

Question
I have been pitching fastpitch for over 7 years.  For the last 2 years I have been having trouble with my back.  Last year it was my pirformis(?) muscle, but now it has started in my upper back and worked its way down.  The pain is there all day, not only when I am pitching.  I have been to a massage therapist but it doesn't seem to help.  Any helpful tips?

Answer
Hello Cheryl,

I'm very sorry we took so long to respond, we've been covered up recently.  There are two things I'd suggest. The first is to spend a lot of time stretching and warming up.  Many back and shoulder problems are a result of poor stretching.  The second thing I would suggest is set up a video camera and film yourself during delivery.  I suspect you have gotten into a habit of leaning forward on your release.  Your chin should finish behind your belly button on release.  This is very hard on your upper back and shoulder.  If this is not the case, I'd suggest seeing a sports medicine doctor and have your back closely examined.  You don't want to take a chance on doing any further damage because back problems get worse with age, take it from an old man.  Please let me know how things turn out!