Correlation of Throwing Mechanics With Elbow Valgus Load in Adult Baseball Pitchers

Abstract

The biomechanical findings of this study offer scientific feedback for developing methods used to minimize the effects of valgus load on pitching-related elbow injuries.

Effect of stride length on overarm throwing delivery: A linear momentum response

“…This calibration posture was to derive the joint centers of rotation, define respective segmental coordinate axes, and to establish neutral (zero) alignment from which subsequent kinematic measures were referenced. Both the dominant and non-dominant shoulder and elbow joint centers were estimated as described in previous study (Aguinaldo & Chambers, 2009;Aguinaldo, Buttermore, & Chambers, 2007). A right handed coordinate system was employed for right handed pitchers whereas left handed pitchers were accounted for by reflecting (negating) the Y axis (frontal) and Z axis (transverse) from right to left in the software, thereby utilizing a left-handed coordinate system to describe rotations.…”

The Association of Foot Arch Posture and Prior History of Shoulder or Elbow Surgery in Elite-Level Baseball Pitchers

“…22 Increases in lumbar lordosis have been shown to cause hyperabduction and hyper-ex ternal rotation of the shoulder during the pitching motion, creating increases in forces at the shoulder and elbow. 1,2,16 This abnormal increase in lordosis, spe cifically during the acceleration phase of the pitching motion, places the shoulder and elbow at risk of injury because of the higher forces.…”

“…2,4,7,12,19,26,30,[34][35][36][37]45,55,56,59,61 There are numerous investigations in the literature that detail how musculoskeletal impairments and structural abnormalities can result in lower extremity injuries. However, to the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that examined the association between foot arch postures and a history of shoulder or elbow surgery related to the pitching motion.…”

“…30,34,36,37,56,61 Pathomechanics of the throwing arm have been linked to glenohumeral internal rotation deficits, high maximum pitch velocity, limited trunk and hip rotation, and improper throwing mechanics. 1,2,11,17,21,30,31,53 However, to date, no studies have examined foot arch posture as a potential risk factor for shoulder and elbow injuries in baseball pitchers.…”

“…2,4,45,55,56,59 For example, proper positioning of the lunge limb (contralateral to the throwing arm) at foot plant is required for proper ball positioning, more efficient delivery, and decreased risk of injury. 36,56 Although a study by Donatelli et al 19 reported that excessive foot arch pronation in baseball players was not significantly associated with lower extremity overuse injuries, it did not differentiate player positions and did not investigate injuries above the hip.…”