Abstract
BACKGROUND: Repetitive motion can alter joint angles and subsequently affect the control of the center of mass (CoM). While the CoM has been studied as a fatigue indicator in various sports, the control of the whole-body CoM during repetitive pitching in baseball pitchers has not been examined. This study aimed to investigate changes in lower-extremity joint angles and CoM control in collegiate baseball pitchers after repetitive pitching. HYPOTHESIS: Baseball pitchers would exhibit significant increase in lower-extremity flexion angles, CoM position, and CoM variability after repetitive pitching. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive laboratory study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3. METHODS: A total of 23 pitchers from the Collegiate Baseball League were recruited. A motion analysis system was employed to assess lower-extremity joint angles and CoM position during the simulated game, while pitching accuracy and velocity were also recorded. RESULTS: The results revealed a significant forward and downward shift in CoM position (P < 0.05), along with increased CoM variability in all directions (P < 0.05) after the simulated game. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in flexion angles of the knee and hip (P < 0.05); however, pitching velocity and accuracy did not demonstrate significant changes. CONCLUSION: Repetitive pitching leads to kinematic changes that should be monitored to prevent sports injuries. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Baseball pitchers have the ability to modify the control of their CoM and angles of their lower-extremity joints to sustain their pitching performance. It is crucial to monitor compensatory strategies closely to avoid shoulder and elbow injuries among these pitchers.