Effect of hip range of motion on upper extremity pitching kinematics
Abstract
Clinical Scenario: Baseball pitchers suffer from a variety of upper extremity injuries. It is hypothesized that deficits in hip range of motion can lead to compensations in the upper extremity, increasing injury risk. Focused Clinical Question: Do deficits in hip range of motion lead to increased injury risk in the upper extremity in baseball pitchers due to changes in pitching kinematics? Key Findings: A search was conducted of the literature that studied the relationship between hip range of motion and upper extremity pitching kinematics. A total of 6 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, however only 3 were included in the final analysis due to limitations of the other studies. All studies found a significant relationship between hip range of motion and upper extremity pitching kinematics. Clinical Bottom Line: While all studies found a significant relationship, two of the three studies supported the clinical question. Based on this evidence, hip range of motion has a significant effect on upper extremity kinematics during the pitching motion. Future Research: Future research needs to be conducted to determine if there is a true relationship between hip range of motion and upper extremity pathology in baseball pitchers. Strength of Recommendation: Based on the Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, evidence from three level III cross-sectional studies indicates a Grade B level evidence that supports hip range of motion influences upper extremity kinematics.
Citation
Belcher, B., Wicker, K., and O'Brien, M. (2023, February 17). The effect of hip range of motion on upper extremity pitching kinematics. Poster presented at Research Week, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Ok.
Collections
- Research Week 2023 [83]