Epidemiologic Study of Pitching Injuries in Baseball

Principal investigators:
Dr. Frederick Mueller, Dr. Barry Goldberg, and Dr. Stephen Marshall

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A Study of Pitching Injuries in Youth Baseball

USA Baseball is increasingly concerned about the growing number of anecdotal reports of baseball pitchers with serious arm injuries at a young age and into their later careers. However, the absence of definitive population-based statistics on pitching arm injuries means that it is impossible to determine the magnitude of this problem and how best to prevent it. This project will provide much-needed epidemiological data on the prevalence of pitching arm injuries across a range of age groups (Little League, High School, and College) in young pitchers actively involved in the sport.

In addition, risk factors for pitching arm injuries will be identified through a prospective follow-up study. Scientifically selected samples of baseball pitchers will complete baseline questionnaires related to the prevalence of their pitching arm injuries and suspected risk factors for pitching arm injuries. The first year will concentrate on Little League teams, year two on high school teams, and year three on college teams. This data will provide a much-needed descriptive epidemiology of the prevalence of pitching arm injuries. In addition, the Little League, High School, and College players surveyed will be prospectively followed to determine their incidence of pitching arm injury.

Analysis of the injury incidence data will make it possible to identify risk factors related to risk of injury. This will allow the researchers to make recommendations for reducing the injury risk, and to identify players who are at high-risk for future injury. The aim of the research is to advance the knowledge of pitching arm injury by defining the prevalence of the condition, and by identifying medical and demographic injury risk factors important to the long-term success and longevity of baseball pitchers.