The abdominal muscles typically affected in pitching and hitting include the rectus abdominis, internal obliques, external obliques, and intercostal muscles.
The abdominal muscles typically affected in pitching and hitting include the rectus abdominis, internal obliques, external obliques, and intercostal muscles. Strains to these muscles currently rank as the fifth most common baseball injury. The incidence of abdominal muscle injuries has been increasing.
Increasing risk of abdominal injuries The primary role of the abdominal muscles is to transmit forces as part of the kinetic chain from the lower extremities to the upper body. Specifically, the internal abdominal oblique is an important muscle in a thrower’s velocity and also in the bat speed of a hitter. During throwing, the abdominal musculature shows activation on the nondominant side during acceleration.
As a result, both hitters and pitchers are found to predominantly injure their lead side. Internal Abdominal Oblique muscle injury can be classified by location Patients typically remember an episode of sharp pain over the lateral abdomen during a rotation activity. Abdominal injuries were more commonly seen in spring training and in the early part of the baseball season.
Following an injury, abdominal muscle strains typically cause pain with inspiration and coughing. On examination, there is pain elicited with palpation of the abdominal muscle affected. Diagnosis can be made with both ultrasound and MRI.
MRI findings can include increased fluid signal, feathery edema, and hematoma within the affected muscle. Ultrasound findings can show loss of fibrillar echotexture within the affected muscle and also possible focal fluid collection within the muscle. MRI diagnosis of oblique strain Following diagnosis, conservative measures are typically taken.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to abdominal muscle strains in baseball players, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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