Magnetic and inertial measurement units (MIMUs) may provide an accessible, three-dimensional, in-field alternative to laboratory-restricted marker-based motion capture. Existing upper limb MIMU models have predominantly been validated with low-velocity motion and their suitability for use with sport-based movements remains relatively untested. We propose a MIMU system approach to enable the estimation of anatomically meaningful and participant-specific elbow kinematics with considerations for use with cricket bowling. A novel standardised elbow reference posture of 90 degrees flexion and 0 deg pronation, and functional definition of elbow joint axes of rotation calibrated the MIMU method model before it was validated across three experiments: (1) simple elbow rotations with a mechanical linkage; (2) low-velocity elbow rotations in human participants; and (3) low-medium velocity sport-based movements in human participants. The proposed MIMU method demonstrated high elbow kinematic measurement agreement when compared with a criterion measure across all three conditions. However, during experiment 3, sensor components neared their measurement capacity and the MIMU method elbow flexion measurement variability increased. We conclude that the proposed MIMU method can estimate anatomically referenced, participant-specific joint angles, however, the hardware specifications of currently available systems may limit application in high-velocity/acceleration situations, preventing the measurement of cricket bowling in-field for now.

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Cricket bowlers must be able to deliver the ball with less than 15 of elbow extension or face suspension. The aim of this case study was to report the findings of a technique remediation programme on the elbow joint kinematics of an international cricket bowler. The bowler underwent a three-dimensional bowling analysis to measure his elbow joint kinematics before and after a technique remediation programme. The bowler was required to bowl six deliveries of each of his off-break, quicker and doosra variations. The remediation programme focussed on modifying the bowler's run-up, shoulder alignment and ball/hand position at back foot impact. Elbow joint waveform data were analysed using statistical parametric mapping tests and coefficient of multiple determination. Elbow flexion-extension angles at discrete events were compared pre-and post-remediation using paired-sample t-tests. Results showed that the remediation programme was effective in reducing the amount of elbow flexion, particularly in the first 60% of the delivery cycle. Elbow extension range was significantly lower post-remediation for the off-break and quicker deliveries. It was concluded that basic short-term technique remediation can be effective in reducing elbow extension range.