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Fujii S, Tanabe T, Miaki H, Kosaka M. Relationship between shoulder rotation deficit and elbow instability in healthy baseball players. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2023; 63:1317-1323. [PMID: 37791827 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.23.15143-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elbow valgus instability is a risk factor for elbow medial collateral ligament injury. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between shoulder range of motion and elbow valgus instability using an ultrasound imaging system. A questionnaire and ultrasound examination were used for the study. METHODS Thirty-seven high school baseball players (15-18 years) with no history of shoulder or elbow disorders were included. Shoulder range of motion was measured at 90° of adduction, 10° of horizontal adduction, and 90° of elbow flexion in the supine resting position. To evaluate elbow valgus instability, an ultrasound imaging system was used to measure the shortest distance from the apex of the ulnar capitulum to the humeral glenoid with 2.5 kg of valgus stress applied to the ulnohumeral joint. The presence of elbow valgus instability was determined by the value obtained by subtracting the joint space distance on the non-throwing side from that on the throwing side. Student's t-test was applied for the range of shoulder rotation between the two groups, and Pearson's correlation coefficient was used for the relationship between the range of shoulder rotation and elbow instability. Statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS The range of internal and total shoulder rotation was significantly lower in participants with elbow valgus instability than those without elbow valgus instability (P<0.001). In addition, a significant moderate correlation was found in the range of internal (r=0.608, P<0.001) and total shoulder (r=0.479, P<0.001) rotations. CONCLUSIONS Decreased shoulder range of motion may affect elbow valgus instability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Fujii
- Division of Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Therapy, Fukui General Hospital, Fukui, Japan -
- Kanazawa University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Health Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan -
| | - Toru Tanabe
- Division of Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Therapy, Fukui General Hospital, Fukui, Japan
- Kanazawa University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Health Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hiroichi Miaki
- Kanazawa University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Health Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kosaka
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Fukui General Hospital, Fukui, Japan
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Matsel KA, Hoch MC, Butler RJ, Westgate PM, Malone TR, Uhl TL. A Field-expedient Arm Care Screening Tool Can Identify Musculoskeletal Risk Factors in Baseball Players. Sports Health 2023; 15:736-745. [PMID: 36203312 PMCID: PMC10467487 DOI: 10.1177/19417381221125465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preseason movement screening can identify modifiable risk factors, deterioration of function, and potential for injury in baseball players. Limited resources and time prevent high school baseball coaches from performing movement screens on their players. HYPOTHESIS The arm care screen (ACS) will be highly sensitive to detecting musculoskeletal risk factors. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 3. METHODS A total of 150 baseball players were independently scored on the ACS electronically by reviewing a video recording of each player's screening performance. Discriminability of the ACS was determined with a 2 × 2 contingency table dichotomizing musculoskeletal risk factors as present or absent based on a predetermined cutoff value and those who passed or failed the corresponding ACS subtest. RESULTS High sensitivity was observed on the reciprocal shoulder mobility (0.89; 95% CI 0.81-0.94), 90/90 total body rotation (0.86; 95% CI 0.79-0.92), and lower body diagonal reach (0.85; 95% CI 0.78-0.91) tests of the ACS suggesting sufficient ability to identify musculoskeletal impairments and risk factors. CONCLUSION The ACS is a simplistic screening tool that the coach can administer to discriminate between youth, high school, and college-level baseball players who possess musculoskeletal risk factors. The ACS subtests demonstrated high sensitivity for correctly identifying musculoskeletal risk factors common in baseball players and can be useful as a screening tool for baseball coaches developing arm care exercise programs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE A field-expedient screen could provide coaches the ability to identify musculoskeletal risk factors that need to be addressed to minimize injury risk factors in a time-efficient manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A. Matsel
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
- University of Evansville, Evansville, Indiana
| | | | - Robert J. Butler
- Saint Louis Cardinals Baseball Organization, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | | | - Tim L. Uhl
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Labott JR, Leland DP, Till SE, Diamond A, Hintz C, Dines JS, Camp CL. A Number of Modifiable and Nonmodifiable Factors Increase the Risk for Elbow Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury in Baseball Players: A Systematic Review. Arthroscopy 2023:S0749-8063(23)00020-8. [PMID: 36649826 DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2022.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the current literature regarding risk factors associated with medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) injury in baseball players and to serve as a robust source for identifying modifiable risk factors that once optimized, have the potential to reduce injury risk. METHODS Comprehensive search of the available literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Studies were included if they evaluated risk factors for MUCL injuries in the elbow of baseball players. Risk of bias assessment was performed via Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) scoring system. The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine was used to determine level of evidence. Variables of interest; player age, position, shoulder motion, humeral retrotorsion, joint laxity, strength, balance, geography, velocity, pitch count, pitch types, throwing volumes, and throwing mechanics were recorded. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were included in this systematic review. MINORS scores ranged from 75 to 87%, and variables demonstrated significant heterogeneity. Performance-based risk factors for MUCL injury included: increased pitch count (both annual and per game), higher percentage of fastballs thrown, smaller pitch repertoire, and/or a loss of pitching velocity. Biomechanical studies demonstrated the relationship between decreased shoulder range of motion (total ROM, ER, IR, and abduction), increased humeral retrotorsion, increased elbow valgus opening in the throwing arm, lower Y-Balance score, and increased lateral release position to increased MUCL injury. CONCLUSION Risk factors for MUCL injury can generally be categorized into 4 primary groups: 1) various player demographics and characteristics, 2) throwing too hard (high velocity), 3) throwing too much (pitch count/volume), and 4) throwing with poor mechanics. In this systematic review, the most significant nonmodifiable risk factors for MUCL injuries included: increased glenohumeral retrotorsion and elbow valgus opening. The most consistent modifiable risk factors included: total shoulder range of motion, pitch count, pitch selection, Y balance score, and lateral release position. Pitch velocity was inconsistent in literature, but most studies found this as a risk for injury. These risk factors may serve as appropriate targets for future evidence-based injury mitigation strategies. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV, systematic review of Level II-IV studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R Labott
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Devin P Leland
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Sara E Till
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Adam Diamond
- Minnesota Twins Baseball Club, One Twins Way, Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | - Christian Hintz
- Minnesota Twins Baseball Club, One Twins Way, Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A
| | | | - Christopher L Camp
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A..
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Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit in the Adolescent Overhead Athlete: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin J Sport Med 2022; 32:546-554. [PMID: 34173779 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000000945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review was to investigate the average glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) in the dominant arm of adolescent overhead athletes and to examine the association with shoulder and elbow injuries. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed were searched from inception to August 1, 2020. PARTICIPANTS Adolescent overhead athletes with glenohumeral range of motion (ROM) measurements. INTERVENTIONS Nonoperative treatments of GIRD. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Glenohumeral ROM measurements comparing the dominant and nondominant extremities were pooled in a meta-analysis. RESULTS Twenty-five studies were included in this review, which involved 2522 overhead athletes. Pooled internal rotation (IR) deficit of the dominant arm was 9.60° (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.87°-11.32°, P < 0.00001), with an external rotation (ER) gain of 6.78° (95% CI 4.97°-8.59°, P < 0.00001) and a total ROM (TROM) deficit of 1.78° (95% CI -0.70° to 4.26°, P = 0.16). The association between GIRD and shoulder or elbow injury was not clearly defined. Two studies reported treatment, and both used nonoperative treatment in the form of physiotherapy and sleeper stretches. CONCLUSIONS The adolescent overhead athlete has roughly 10° of IR deficit in their dominant arm, accompanied by nearly 7° of ER gain, with similar ROM measurements for injured and uninjured athletes. Those with pathological GIRD have a greater degree of IR deficit, but without an accompanying compensatory increase in ER, leading to a TROM deficit of nearly 15°. Surgical treatment in the absence of other indications is rare, whereas physiotherapy and sleeper stretches remain the first-line treatment.
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Mirabito NS, Topley M, Thomas SJ. Acute Effect of Pitching on Range of Motion, Strength, and Muscle Architecture. Am J Sports Med 2022; 50:1382-1388. [PMID: 35286185 DOI: 10.1177/03635465221083325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute adaptations in clinical measures of range of motion and strength have been found after baseball pitching; however, there is a lack of research concerning the physiological mechanism responsible for these changes. Adaptations in muscle architecture of the infraspinatus and teres minor may serve as the structural changes responsible for these clinical measure changes. PURPOSE To longitudinally assess the acute changes in range of motion, strength, and muscle architecture of the infraspinatus and teres minor muscles in baseball pitchers after a simulated baseball game. Additionally, we examined the relationship between muscle architecture and changes in clinical measures of range of motion and strength. STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. METHODS Ten healthy nonvarsity collegiate club baseball pitchers (mean ± SD; age, 20.1 ± 1.10 years) were examined pre-pitching, immediately after pitching, and each subsequent day for 5 days after pitching in a simulated baseball game. A digital inclinometer and handheld dynamometer were used to assess range of motion and strength, respectively. Diagnostic ultrasound was used to assess pennation angle and muscle thickness of the infraspinatus and teres minor at rest and at maximal contraction. RESULTS Internal rotation range of motion significantly decreased immediately and did not return to baseline until 4 days after pitching (P≤ .05). External rotation strength also immediately decreased and returned on the third day after pitching (P≤ .05). Moreover, the resting pennation angle of the superficial and deep portions of the infraspinatus increased immediately after pitching, with the superficial portion returning to baseline on day 4 and the deep portion returning on day 5 (P≤ .05). Furthermore, the pennation angle changes of the infraspinatus and thickness of the teres minor were predictive of the loss of internal rotation range of motion after pitching (R2 = 0.419; P≤ .05). CONCLUSION This study found diminished internal rotation range of motion and external rotation strength after pitching, with alterations in muscle architecture of the infraspinatus. The pennation angle increase in the infraspinatus at rest is indicative of increased tension in the muscle, which was found to be the underlying mechanism for the clinical loss of internal rotation range of motion. This was demonstrated by the inverse relationship between internal rotation range of motion and the pennation angle of the superficial and deep fibers of the infraspinatus. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Clinicians should consider recovery time after pitching to prevent chronic losses of shoulder range of motion and strength. Identification of the underlying mechanisms of range of motion loss after pitching allows clinicians to optimize recovery strategies in baseball pitchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas S Mirabito
- Department of Kinesiology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew Topley
- Department of Kinesiology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stephen J Thomas
- Department of Exercise Science, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Disantis AE, Martin R. Movement System Dysfunction Applied to Youth and Young Adult Throwing Athletes. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2022; 17:90-103. [PMID: 35024209 PMCID: PMC8720247 DOI: 10.26603/001c.30022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Shoulder and elbow injuries in overhead athletes, especially baseball pitchers, have become more common and result in limited participation. Upper extremity injuries in baseball can occur secondary to high velocity repetitive loading at extreme ranges of motion causing microtrauma to the musculoskeletal structures. With the vast number of youth and young adult baseball players in the United States and the increasing number of throwing related injuries, it is crucial that clinicians can perform a movement system evaluation of the throwing motion. An adequate evaluation of the movement system as it relates to the throwing motion can provide insight into abnormal throwing mechanics and provide rationale for selecting appropriate interventions to address identified impairments that may lead to injury. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to present a recommended movement system evaluation that can be utilized during both pre-season and in-season to assess for modifiable injury risk factors in youth and young adult baseball players. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 5.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - RobRoy Martin
- Department of Physical Therapy, Duquesne University; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Center for Sports Medicine
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Tajika T, Oya N, Kuboi T, Endo F, Ichinose T, Shimoyama D, Sasaki T, Hamano N, Omodaka T, Kobayashi H, Mieda T, Okamura K, Shitara H, Iizuka Y, Yamamoto A, Nakajima I, Kobayashi T, Sakamoto M, Takagishi K, Chikuda H. Risk Factors for Throwing-Related Shoulder and Elbow Pain in Adolescent Baseball Players: A Prospective Study of Physical and Developmental Factors. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211017129. [PMID: 34552989 PMCID: PMC8450620 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211017129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain continues to be reported among adolescent baseball players. Few prospective studies have specifically examined the association between throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain and physical and developmental changes. Purpose: To evaluate the changes in physical and developmental characteristics during 1 year with respect to throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain in adolescent baseball players. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: This 1-year prospective follow-up study investigated 164 baseball players aged 7 to 13 years. Player data (age, height, weight, field position, and pitch count), lower extremity muscle tightness, and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder, elbow, and hip joints were assessed during the 2016 and 2017 preseason medical examinations. After the 2016 season, the participants completed questionnaires related to throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain, defined as an inability to play for ≥1 week because of elbow or shoulder difficulties. For study participants with and without throwing-related shoulder or elbow pain during the 2016 season, we conducted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors for throwing-related shoulder or elbow pain. Results: Overall, 21 players (12.8%) reported a shoulder pain episode, 56 players (34.1%) had an elbow pain episode, and 70 players (42.7%) reported having experienced shoulder and/or elbow pain during the 2016 season. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, (1) shoulder pain was associated with 2016 preseason height (odds ratio [OR], 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11; P = .01) and change in dominant-side elbow extension ROM from 2016 to 2017 (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.02-1.24; P = .02); (2) elbow pain was associated with change in weight from 2016 to 2017 (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.04-1.41; P = .014); and (3) throwing-related shoulder and/or elbow pain was associated with greater 2016 preseason height (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.003-1.68; P = .03) and an increase in height from 2016 to 2017 (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.01-1.35; P = .03). Conclusion: Our results indicated that adolescent baseball players who were taller in the preseason and those with an increase in height over the 1-year study period faced significant risks for developing throwing-related shoulder and/or elbow pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Tajika
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Noboru Oya
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takuro Kuboi
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Endo
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Ichinose
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Daisuke Shimoyama
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Sasaki
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Noritaka Hamano
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takuya Omodaka
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kobayashi
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tokue Mieda
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Koichi Okamura
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Shitara
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yoichi Iizuka
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Atsushi Yamamoto
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Ichiro Nakajima
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Kobayashi
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Masaaki Sakamoto
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kenji Takagishi
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Chikuda
- Investigation performed at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
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Rosen M, Meijer K, Tucker S, Wilcox CL, Plummer HA, Andrews JR, Ostrander RV. Shoulder Range of Motion Deficits in Youth Throwers Presenting With Elbow Pain. Sports Health 2021; 14:478-482. [PMID: 34414823 DOI: 10.1177/19417381211036387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) and total arc of motion difference (TAMD) have been associated with elbow injuries in throwing athletes. HYPOTHESIS Youth pitchers with elbow pain will have greater GIRD and TAMD compared with youth pitchers without elbow pain. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 3. METHODS Glenohumeral range of motion of 25 consecutive throwing athletes presenting with elbow pain and that of a matched control group of 18 asymptomatic throwing athletes were compared. Bilateral glenohumeral internal rotation, external rotation, and horizontal adduction at 90° were measured and GIRD and TAMD were then calculated. An analysis of variance was performed to compare range of motion between throwers with and without elbow pain. RESULTS The average GIRD of the elbow pain group was 32.7° compared with 14.5° in the control group (P < 0.05). The average TAMD in the elbow pain group was 28.3° compared with 6.7° in the control group (P < 0.05). GIRD and TAMD were present in 88% (22 of 25) and 96% (24 of 25) of the elbow pain group versus 33.3% (6 of 18) and 55.6% (10 of 18) of the control group, respectively. CONCLUSION Compared with asymptomatic youth pitchers, those presenting with elbow pain have a statistically significant GIRD and TAMD. CLINICAL RELEVANCE This study suggests that a GIRD and TAMD may predispose youth pitchers to present with symptomatic elbow pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Rosen
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida
| | - Karim Meijer
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Texas Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Group, Dallas, Texas
| | - Scott Tucker
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida
| | - C Luke Wilcox
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida
| | - Hillary A Plummer
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida
| | - James R Andrews
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida
| | - Roger V Ostrander
- Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Gulf Breeze, Florida.,Andrews Research and Education Foundation, Gulf Breeze, Florida
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Khalil LS, Jildeh TR, Taylor KA, Gulledge CM, Smith DG, Sandberg ML, Makhni EC, Okoroha KR, Moutzouros V. The relationship between shoulder range of motion and elbow stress in college pitchers. J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2021; 30:504-511. [PMID: 32650073 DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2020.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS College pitchers with increased external rotation gain (ERG) produce increased medial elbow torque (elbow stress) whereas those with reduced total rotational range of motion (ROM) have reduced medial elbow torque during pitching. METHODS Pitchers were recruited from 3 college baseball teams. Players with prior injury or on pitching restrictions because of pain were excluded. Players were evaluated within 2 weeks before their first game of the season. Pitchers completed an intake survey, and shoulder and arm measurements were taken. Pitchers were fitted with a baseball sleeve that included a sensor at the medial elbow. The sensor calculated elbow torque, arm speed, arm slot, and shoulder rotation for each pitch, while a radar gun measured peak ball velocity. After adequate warm-up, pitchers threw 5 fastballs in a standardized manner off the mound at game-speed effort. The primary outcome evaluated the relationship between shoulder ROM and medial elbow torque. Additional outcomes evaluated pitcher characteristics and demographic characteristics in the context of shoulder ROM. RESULTS Twenty-eight pitchers were included in the preseason analysis. The average age and playing experience were 20.1 years (standard deviation [SD], 1.3 years) and 15.3 years (SD, 1.8 years), respectively, with 2.5 years (SD, 1.2 years) playing at collegiate level. The dominant shoulder showed decreased internal rotation and increased external rotation (ER) relative to the nondominant side (P < .001). The average glenohumeral internal rotation deficit and ERG were 11.3° (SD, 9.87°) and 5.71° (SD, 8.8°), respectively. ERG ≥ 5° was a significant predictor of elbow stress during pitching (47.4 Nm [SD, 0.7 Nm] vs. 45.1 Nm [SD, 0.6 Nm], P = .014). Univariate associations showed that each additional degree of ER resulted in increased elbow torque (β estimate, 0.35 ± 0.06 Nm; P = .003). Conversely, decreased medial elbow torque was found in pitchers with reduced shoulder ROM (glenohumeral internal rotation deficit ≥ 20°: 43.5 Nm [SD, 1.1 Nm] vs. 46.6 Nm [SD, 0.5 Nm], P = .011; loss of total rotational ROM ≥ 5°: 43.6 Nm [SD, 1.1 Nm] vs. 46.6 Nm [SD, 0.5 Nm], P = .013) and in those with greater arm length (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS College pitchers with increased ER produce greater medial elbow torque during the pitching movement. Each degree of increased ER was found to correlate with increased elbow torque and ball velocity. On the contrary, arm length and reduced shoulder ROM were associated with reduced medial elbow torque. This study suggests that increased ER in pitchers is associated with greater elbow stress during pitching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lafi S Khalil
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Toufic R Jildeh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kevin A Taylor
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Caleb M Gulledge
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - D Grace Smith
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Eric C Makhni
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kelechi R Okoroha
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
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DESCRIPTIVE PROFILE OF SHOULDER RANGE OF MOTION AND STRENGTH IN YOUTH ATHLETES PARTICIPATING IN OVERHEAD SPORTS. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2020; 15:1090-1098. [PMID: 33344026 DOI: 10.26603/ijspt20201090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The unilateral and repetitive nature of overhead sports, often result in a biomechanical overload of the upper extremity. Understanding the musculoskeletal shoulder range of motion (ROM) and strength patterns in the youth sports of baseball, softball, and tennis could assist injury prevention screening and further the development of conditioning and rehabilitation programs. Purpose To generate a descriptive profile of shoulder musculoskeletal characteristics and determine whether bilateral differences in shoulder ROM exist in youth baseball, softball, and tennis athletes. A secondary aim was to determine whether shoulder rotational adaptations are correlated with playing position, sport, or years of experience. Study Design Descriptive Laboratory. Methods A total of 136 competitive youth overhead athletes (baseball: n = 51,12.8 ± 0.9yrs; softball: n = 63,12.3 ± 1.1yrs; and tennis: n = 22,12.5 ± 0.9yrs) participated. Bilateral shoulder internal (IR) and external (ER) passive ROM and external rotation strength were measured using an inclinometer and handheld dynamometer. Results Significant differences (p<.001) in bilateral shoulder ROM and ER strength were found between the athletes in the three sports. Post-hoc test revealed tennis athletes had greater bilateral shoulder ROM than both baseball and softball athletes, but baseball and softball athletes had greater bilateral ER strength than tennis athletes. There were no differences between baseball and softball athletes. Additionally, tennis athletes had greater bilateral internal rotation and total ROM but less ER strength than baseball pitchers, baseball positional athletes, softball pitchers, and softball positional athletes. There were no significant differences between positions and baseball and softball athletes. There were no significant correlations between playing position, sport, or years of experience. Conclusion The results of this study showed differences in shoulder passive ROM and strength adaptations between youth tennis, baseball, and softball athletes. The descriptive nature of this study is impactful as it presents specific ROM adaptions seen in this population. Future research is needed to further evaluate if the "at risk" ROM identified in older populations holds true in the youth population. Level of Evidence Diagnosis, Level 3b.
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Wight JT, Tillman MD, Grover GB, Chow JW, Borsa PA, Wikstrom EA, Larkin-Kaiser K. Pitching shoulder passive flexibility: torque-angle analysis for external rotation and internal rotation. Sports Biomech 2020; 21:877-889. [PMID: 32026746 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2019.1705885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a custom device was developed to analyse the pitching shoulder's external rotation (ER) and internal rotation (IR) passive flexibility. We analysed three novel measures: the resistance onset angle (ROA = angle where the shoulder begins stretching), rotational stiffness, and torque at the end range of motion (ROM). The purpose was to conduct a bilateral analysis to determine if there are significant differences between the throwing and non-throwing shoulder. Participants were 30 upper level pitchers (13 division I, 17 minor league). During testing, pitchers laid supine on a treatment table and the arm was secured to a rotational wheel with the shoulder abducted 90° and elbow flexed 90°. Dependent t-tests revealed significant (p < 0.01) and relatively extreme bilateral differences for all three variables. The throwing shoulder had: increased ER ROA (9°), decreased IR ROA (5.3°), increased ER stiffness (17%), increased IR stiffness (34%), increased ER torque (21%), and increased IR torque (30%). Secondary correlation analysis was completed to determine if the torque-angle variables were good predictors of the end ROM. Stiffness correlations were weak for ER (r = 0.35, p = 0.048) and IR (r = 0.42, p = 0.017) but ROA correlations were strong for ER (r = 0.85, p < 0.001) and IR (r = 0.86, p < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff T Wight
- Brooks Rehabilitation College of Healthcare Sciences, Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Mark D Tillman
- WellStar College of Health and Human Services, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Guy B Grover
- Regeneration Technologies, Inc., Alachua, FL, USA
| | - John W Chow
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurological Recovery, Methodist Rehabilitation Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Paul A Borsa
- Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Erik A Wikstrom
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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