Monitoring the Throwing Motion: Current State of Wearables and Analytics

Recent developments in wearable technology have made the biomechanical evaluation of the throwing motion more accessible for recreational and professional baseball pitchers. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) overcome challenges associated with three-dimensional motion analysis and can be used to quantitatively measure various kinematic and kinetic variables, including those potentially associated with ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury risk. Other wearable devices can evaluate biometric data (such as heart rate) to assess fatigue, and surface electromyography can be used to evaluate muscle recruitment throughout the throwing motion. Biomechanical data collected by these sensors can be transmitted in real-time for immediate feedback or retrospectively reviewed. Several studies have used this technology to evaluate the impact of pitch type, fatigue, ball weight, glenohumeral rotation deficit, partial effort pitching, and throwing distance on the throwing motion. Current limitations of IMUs include challenges associated with device reliability, data transmission range, and interpretation of data upon retrospective review. Future advancements in wearable technology could allow for the routine collection of biomechanical data during active competition. Other potential applications of wearable technology include incorporation of IMUs into UCL reconstruction rehabilitation protocols, and assessing biomechanical factors that may lead to increased risk of pitching-related injuries throughout the course of a season.