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Association between pitching velocity and elbow varus torque
Scott Peters1, Garrett S Bullock2, Kristen F Nicholson2
1Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Club, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy
|May 25, 2025
Summary
Improving pitching mechanics can enhance velocity and reduce elbow varus torque in baseball pitchers. Biomechanical analysis reveals key variables influencing this, but prediction models need further development for injury reduction.
Area of Science:
- Sports Biomechanics
- Baseball Pitching Analysis
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Increasing biomechanical studies in baseball highlight a conflict between performance enhancement and injury reduction.
- Elbow varus torque is a critical factor in pitching-related injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify key biomechanical variables influencing elbow varus torque, controlling for pitch velocity.
- Evaluate a minimal dataset prediction model for elbow varus torque.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 298 baseball pitchers undergoing biomechanical evaluation.
- Analysis of covariance and prediction modeling were used to assess relationships between variables and elbow varus torque.
Main Results:
- Small associations were found between hip shoulder separation, trunk rotation velocity, trunk flexion, and shoulder abduction with elbow varus torque.
- The minimal data set prediction model demonstrated poor performance, calibration, and high error (RMSE=1.15, R²=0.10).
Conclusions:
- Optimizing pitching efficiency through minor adjustments in delivery can improve velocity while potentially lowering varus torque.
- Further research is needed to develop accurate predictive models for injury prevention in baseball pitchers.
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