%A Hayley Harp
%T Analysis of Glenohumeral Range of Motion in Division I Collegiate Softball and Baseball Athletes
%X A majority of overhead throwing research and literature specifically addresses range of motion in baseball pitchers but does not include information pertaining to baseball position players. In addition, there is an overall lack of literature regarding range of motion analysis in softball athletes. The baseball pitching motion varies from the overhead throw position players in both softball and baseball use and therefore, warrants a separate conversation. This study aims to evaluate bilateral glenohumeral internal and external rotation and horizontal adduction range of motion measurements in softball and baseball players of various positions and identify if any display glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) or posterior shoulder tightness (PST). Both GIRD and PST have been identified as common adaptations to the throwing shoulder as well as risk factors for shoulder injury. In this sample, dominant arm internal rotation was statistically significant when compared between baseball and softball players (p=0.013) and was the only statistically significant similar range of motion. The proportion of external rotation insufficiency (ERI) was the most notable in both baseball and softball players at 88.2% and 74.1%, respectively. While there were low numbers of GIRD and PST for both groups, the similarity in ERI alone warrants further research in softball players glenohumeral range of motion profile. It also suggests both baseball and softball players would benefit from clinical intervention prior to being diagnosed with GIRD or PST.
%D 2021
%K Glenohumeral Range of Motion, Softball, Baseball, GIRD, PST, ERI, Overhead Throwing,
%I University of Pittsburgh
%L pittir40004