How stride length, lateral pelvic tilt affect elbow torque in pediatric pitchers — 4 study insights

Orthopedic Sports Medicine

A study published in the Journal of Applied Biomechanics examined the effects of elbow torque on a pitcher using kinematic analysis.

David Howell, PhD, of the Waltham, Mass.-based Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, and colleagues had eighteen male pitchers age 15.5±1.6 years throw three fastballs and three change-ups from a windup position while undergoing kinematic analysis.

 

Independent variables were ball release point, stride length, lateral pelvic tilt and ball velocity.

 

Researchers used two multiple regression models to analyze the independent variables associated with peak varus torque on the elbow. Researchers separated the models by pitch type.

 

Here's what you should know.

 

1. In both models, researchers associated stride length and lateral pelvic tilt with peak elbow varus torque.

 

2. Fastball pitch velocity was significantly associated with PEVT.

 

3. A change-up's release point was significantly associated with PEVT.

 

4. Youth pitchers with longer strides and less lateral pelvic tilt demonstrated greater elbow torque for both pitches. Ball velocity and release point to elbow varus torque depended on pitch selection.

 

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