What is the relationship between pitch count, strength, and pain for Division II collegiate softball pitchers?
Date
2022-05
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Florida Southern College
Abstract
Collegiate fastpitch softball pitchers utilize an underhand pitching technique which creates high shoulder stress. Injury prevention measures, such as pitch counts, are missing in softball. Higher pitch counts may reduce strength, increase pain, inhibit proper mechanics, and contribute to higher injury risk. Yet, there is a paucity of research exploring monitoring intervention measures within Division II softball pitchers. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in isometric strength, pitch count, self-reported pain, and open and closed kinetic chain functional test performance in Division II softball pitchers at three time points: off-season, pre-season, and in season. Early monitoring strategies indicated reductions in pitching side isometric strength in key muscles that support pitching technique from off-season to pre-season measurements, but in season measurements did not continue this decline. Athletes improved performance in three functional tests but demonstrated reduced muscle endurance of the posterior chain from off-season to pre-season. These patterns continued to be seen during the competitive season.
Description
Honors Thesis Spring 2022
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Keywords
Pitching (Softball), Sports injuries