Justin Brink

Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

2002

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Health, Physical Education, and Recreation

Abstract

Symptoms of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) are often seen in baseball pitchers after a competitive bout of overhand throwing. Violent eccentric muscle contractions play a large role in the overhand pitching motion and these symptoms include muscle soreness, decreased range of motion, swelling, and strength loss. These experienced symptoms often require several days of recovery before maximal performance can be achieved again. The purpose of this study was to determine if the symptoms experienced by baseball pitchers is the result of acute muscle damage by observing concentrations of Creatine Kinase (CK) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) m the blood. Seven collegiate NCAA baseball players completed six sets of fifteen pitches from an indoor mound. Blood samples were taken directly before throwing, directly after throwing, and 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours after the pitches from the pitchers' non- throwing arm. Isokinetic internal and external rotation strength testing was done directly after the blood draws at 180, 300, and 450 degrees per second on the pitchers' throwing arm. A significant loss in velocity (4 mph) was seen in all but one subject from the first five pitches to the last five pitches leading us to believe that maximal effort was given during the throwing session. A significant increase (403%) (P<0.05) in serum CK levels was seen 12 hours after the throwing session, but serum LDH levels did not increase significantly (P>0.05). No significant strength losses (P>0.05) were seen throughout the study in any of the pitchers despite CK levels that reflect muscle damage. The large increases in serum CK levels indicates muscle fiber damage, although no other indications of DOMS were seen in the pitchers.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Pitching (Baseball) -- Physiological aspects Muscles -- Wounds and injuries Arm -- Muscles

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

46

Publisher

South Dakota State University

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