Relationship Between Pitch Count and Infraspinatus Cross-Sectional Area and Shoulder Range of Motion

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Neuharth, Brenton Michael
- Affiliation: College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Exercise and Sport Science

Abstract

Objective: Higher pitch counts increases injury risk, but the physical changes that occur with increased pitch count are not understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between pitch count and changes in infraspinatus cross-sectional area (ICSA) and shoulder range of motion (ROM) after pitching. Methods: Pitchers on a collegiate baseball team were measured in ICSA, shoulder internal rotation ROM, and horizontal adduction ROM before and after pitching. Pitch counts were correlated with percent changes in ICSA, internal rotation ROM, and horizontal adduction ROM. Results: There was a significant relationship between percent change in ICSA and pitch count (r36=0.467, p=0.004). Conclusions: The correlation between ICSA and pitch count indicates that as the pitch count increases, ICSA, increases. This finding, along with future research on the role of pitch type, mechanics, and velocity on ICSA, can be used to make pitching recommendations and track recovery.

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