A System or Method of Analysis for Injury Prevention in Sports, Youth Fastpitch Softball Pitchers: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background
The prevalence of softball injuries in young pitchers is increasing with more injuries in the upper extremity in the beginning of
the season.
Research Question
Calculate the forces generated during the pitching motion of female youth pitchers at four main areas: the stride, hips, shoulder,
and wrist for 2 groups. R1: u1≠u2.
Study Design
Pilot study, Cross-sectional design.
Level of Evidence
Level-2, Strength-B.
Methods
This study included a total of 15 female youth fastpitch softball pitchers (mean age, 14.33-years; mean weight, 59.01 kg) recruited
to participate during the Fall Softball League (2014). Divided into two groups: 270° hip rotation group vs. a projected 360° hip
rotation group.
Results
A paired sample t-test showed that the 2 groups (270° hip rotation and projected 360° hip rotation) were strongly and positively
correlated (r=0.993, p<0.001). There was a significant average difference between 270° hip rotation and the projected 360° hip
rotation forces (t14=12.996, p<0.001). On average, the projected 360° hip rotation forces were 580.68 N higher than 270° hip
rotation forces (95% CI [676.51, 484.84].
Conclusion
The Current Method (CM) of pitching clearly uses the shoulder as the driving force of the pitch, as pitchers created 467.96 N of
force at the shoulder. Pitchers who used 270° hip rotation produced an average of 147.33 N at the hip while these same individuals
can create an average of 589.30 N with full hip rotation.
Clinical Relevance
Pitchers using the CM of pitching generated an average of 468 N of force at the shoulder. Identifying interruptions in the kinetic
chain is the key to reducing injuries. This is accomplished by creating the ideal kinetic chain and teaching it through a certified
pitching coach program. Once identified, interruptions can be modified and changed through exercises to strengthen and improve
the kinetic chain.