Scher S et al.  Associations among hip and shoulder range of motion and shoulder injury in professional baseball players.  J Athl Train. 2010;45(2):19-197.

The Down Low:  According to this study, pitchers with a history of shoulder injury had decreased hip extension on the throwing side coupled with increased shoulder external rotation of the throwing shoulder.  In other words, if the dominant (throwing side) leg is lacking hip extension flexibility, the body will compensate by increasing the shoulder external rotation to create the “whiplike” effect.  This places more stress on the front of the shoulder (and elbow), potentially causing SLAP tears, rotator cuff tears, and ulnar collateral ligament tears in the elbow (Tommy John).

Take Home Message:   Train the entire body… throwing is not just about the shoulder.  Work on dominant side hip extension flexibility (ie. 1/2 kneeling stretch) and lead leg strength and hip stability.  Incorporating trunk control / core stabilization is equally important.

Early last month I got a text from the father of one of my former clients, a local high school football player.  He mentioned his son had some news he wanted to share with me and would stop by.  Well, football season carried on….all the way to the State Championship Game!!  A few weeks after the big game, Zack stopped by to share his big news – he had accepted a scholarship offer to play football for the Fresno State Bulldogs!  This young man is so humble about his accomplishments and I know he will do great things.

At his visit, Zack also brought in an article where he was honored by the Houston Touchdown Club.  As I read the article, I saw my name…what? my name?  I am so honored and blessed to have worked with this young man.  He is a testament to hard work, dedication, and focus.  We wish Zach success at the next level and beyond!!