Think of a quarterback dropping back to pass and then stepping up into the pocket, or a tennis player that rushes the net and then retreats for a lob over his head. Characteristically, the tendon tears a certain distance from its insertion in the heel bone, where it has the least amount of blood supply. There seems to be direct correlation to aging where the older athlete, in general, has less blood flow to this region. My dad is starting to get angry at me because I am a pitcher and he believes the exercises I am doing are bad for me. Thank you very much for your time.
Experts disagree on the value of weight lifting for a pitcher.
Many feel that specific exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder and to keep the legs and back strong are beneficial. Most experts do not recommend heavy-duty body building because it may reduce flexibility and doesn't seem to help with pitching. Best of luck with your athletic endeavors. Click here to ask. He normally doesn't have the sensation that something actually has torn.