Caregiver Awareness of Safe Pitching Recommendations in Youth Fastpitch Softball Pitchers

Abstract

PURPOSE: Fastpitch softball is one of the fastest growing sports among young females in the US. The current participation rate is similar to that of youth baseball. While there are published guidelines for safe pitching practices in softball, these guidelines are not well publicized like those in baseball, and thus may not be well monitored or enforced by caregivers or coaches. A potential consequence could be compromised safety and increased injury incidence among young softball pitchers. The purposes of this study were to: 1) evaluate caregivers’ knowledge of safe pitching guidelines for youth fastpitch softball, and 2) obtain pitching and injury data for youth fastpitch softball pitchers METHODS: A 30-item study-specific survey was administered to caregivers of youth softball pitchers in 10U-18U age brackets. Knowledge of safe pitching practices, arm pain and injury, and pitching volume and type. 115 surveys were completed, 50.4% of which were completed by the player’s mother. RESULTS: Only 14.7% of caregivers reported knowledge of published softball pitching guidelines while 16.5% relied on safe pitching guidance from coaches, internet, or USSA-ASA recommendations. Of the 115 respondents, 57.4% pitched year round. Caregivers estimated that 26.1% pitched less than 65 pitches per game, 60.8% pitched more than 66 pitches per game, and 13% did not know how many pitches were thrown per game. 74% surveyed stated pitches were counted by the caregiver, spouse, or coach, but 26% of caregivers did not know whether pitches were counted or not during play. A total of 76 softball players reported arm pain, 33% of which were shoulder pain, 13.9% were upper arm pain, and 11.3% were elbow pain. 22% of respondents sought medical care for arm pain. Of 16U and 18U players who reported arm pain, 72.1% missed play due to arm pain CONCLUSIONS: Caregivers need to be a primary target for education of pitching guidelines. Protection of pitching volume-related arm pain or injuries may be possible through increased awareness efforts at the national, regional and local levels. Increased involvement of caregivers in monitoring pitching volume may also positively impact early detection or prevention of chronic arm injuries and missed play in youth softball pitchers.