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. 1993 Winter;28(4):346, 348-350, 352-354.

Posterior Rotator Cuff Strengthening Using Theraband® in a Functional Diagonal Pattern in Collegiate Baseball Pitchers

Phillip A Page 1,2,3,4,5,6, John Lamberth 1,2,3,4,5,6, Ben Abadie 1,2,3,4,5,6, Robert Boling 1,2,3,4,5,6, Robert Collins 1,2,3,4,5,6, Russell Linton 1,2,3,4,5,6
PMCID: PMC1317739  PMID: 16558251

Abstract

The deceleration phase of the pitching mechanism requires forceful eccentric contraction of the posterior rotator cuff. Because traditional isotonic strengthening may not be specific to this eccentric pattern, a more effective and functional means of strengthening the posterior rotator cuff is needed. Twelve collegiate baseball pitchers performed a moderate intensity isotonic dumbbell strengthening routine for 6 weeks. Six of the 12 subjects were randomly assigned to an experimental group and placed on a Theraband® Elastic Band strengthening routine in a functional-diagonal pattern to emphasize the eccentric contraction of the posterior rotator cuff, in addition to the isotonic routine. The control group (n = 6) performed only the isotonic exercises. Both groups were evaluated on a KIN-COM® isokinetic dynamometer in a functional diagonal pattern. Pretest and posttest average eccentric force production of the posterior rotator cuff was compared at two speeds, 60 and 180°/s. Data were analyzed with an analysis of covariance at the .05 level with significance at 60°/s. Values at 180°/s, however, were not significant. Eccentric force production at 60°/s increased more during training in the experimental group (+19.8%) than in the control group (-1.6%). There was no difference in the two groups at 180°/s; both decreased (8 to 15%). Theraband was effective at 60°/s in functional eccentric strengthening of the posterior rotator cuff in the pitching shoulder.

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Selected References

These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.

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