Keywords
Health care competency, Translational research
Abstract
This study used a case-series design to collect in-game fatigue measures for collegiate softball pitchers immediately after pitching during the competitive season. Five softball pitchers (age = 19.8 ± 1.5 years; height = 169.9±6.1 cm; body mass = 79.1±22.6 kg) from one Division I program were recruited. Isometric internal and external rotation, scaption, and grip strength measures were collected using an electronic dynamometer at the beginning and conclusion of the fall non-traditional season, and at the beginning of preseason in January. Strength measures were also obtained during the competitive season at the conclusion of pitching in a game and compared to spring baseline measurements obtained during preseason. All strength measurements were normalized to body mass. Repeated measures ANOVAs were performed to compare post-pitching strength to spring preseason baseline, based on number of pitches thrown; additionally, the three primary time points over the academic year were compared using RM-ANOVAs (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed for any of the dependent variables over time [external rotation (F(2,8) = 0.53, p = .611), internal rotation (F(2,8) = 1.10, p = .379), scaption (F(2,8) = 0.18, p = .838), grip strength (F(2,8)=0.36, p=.707)]. Despite the lack of significance, the primary objective was to consider the use of the dynamometer in data collection following pitching outings throughout the competitive season. Overall, implementation was quick and easy to use; strength and conditioning specialists and athletic trainers should consider the use of electronic dynamometers to assess fatigue and assist in decision-making processes including the management of player load and creation of injury prevention programs.
Recommended Citation
Hansberger, Bethany L. and Lisman, Peter
(2025)
"Use of an Electronic Dynamometer Following Pitching to Identify Fatigue in Softball Pitchers,"
Clinical Practice in Athletic Training: Vol. 8:
Iss.
2, Article 6.
Available at:
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/clinat/vol8/iss2/6
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