The Impact of Pitch Design on Elbow Injuries - Insights from Dr. Keith Meister

⚾️Pitchers who throw pitches with horizontal movement and high spin rates are at a higher risk of elbow injuries.

🔀The new trend of 'designer pitches' with specific movement patterns has contributed to the increase in elbow injuries.

🔧The lack of sticky substances on the ball has forced pitchers to grip the ball harder, increasing the stress on their elbows.

💪Pitchers need to exert maximum effort to throw pitches with high horizontal ball movement, leading to greater strain on their elbows.

📊Pitchers and coaches should reevaluate pitch parameters and frequency to find a balance between performance and reducing injury risk.

What types of pitches are associated with a higher risk of elbow injuries?

—Pitches with horizontal movement and high spin rates, such as sweepers and power changeups, increase the risk of elbow injuries.

How has the trend of 'designer pitches' contributed to the increase in elbow injuries?

—The increased use of pitches with specific movement patterns, achieved by gripping the ball tightly, has put more strain on the elbow and increased the risk of injuries.

Has the absence of sticky substances on the ball impacted elbow injury rates?

—Yes, the lack of tackiness on the ball has forced pitchers to grip the ball harder, resulting in increased stress on their elbows.

Why do pitchers need to exert maximum effort to throw certain pitches?

—Pitches with high horizontal ball movement, such as sweepers and power changeups, require pitchers to grip the ball firmly and exert maximum effort to achieve the desired movement.

What changes should pitchers and coaches consider to reduce the risk of elbow injuries?

—Pitchers and coaches should reevaluate pitch parameters, such as pitch frequency and grip intensity, to strike a balance between performance and reducing the risk of elbow injuries.

04:11Dr. Keith Meister explains that pitchers who throw pitches with horizontal movement and high spin rates are at a higher risk of elbow injuries.

06:41He discusses the impact of 'designer pitches' with specific movement patterns on the increase in elbow injuries among pitchers.

08:59Dr. Meister highlights the lack of sticky substances on the ball, which has forced pitchers to grip the ball harder and increased the stress on their elbows.

10:06He explains that pitches with high horizontal ball movement require pitchers to exert maximum effort, resulting in greater strain on their elbows.

11:58Dr. Meister suggests reevaluating pitch parameters and frequency to find a balance between performance and reducing the risk of elbow injuries.