Effectiveness of a Preseason Prevention Program on Arm Injury Risk Factors

Abstract

Objectives:Deficits in posterior shoulder flexibility and strength have been identified as modifiable risk factors for pitching injuries. There are no studies showing the effect of a prevention program on arm injuries and associated risk factors such as strength and ROM. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a preseason prevention program to resolve these deficits in adolescent pitchers.Methods:Baseball pitchers (n=143 age=15.7±1.2; height=165.0±43.8cm; weight=72.2±12.6kg) participating in all team activities were block randomized by school to intervention (INV n=88) or control (CON n=76) groups. The INV group received an Athletic Trainer supervised posterior shoulder flexibility and strengthening program (3x/week for 8-weeks). The CON group participated in their usual training. All pitchers participated in a 4-week interval-throwing program immediate to the start of practice. Bilateral shoulder ROM and strength were assessed pre-post program using a digital inclinometer (DI) to mea...