Two-Dimensional Video Analysis of Youth and Adolescent Pitching Biomechanics: A Tool For the Common Athlete.

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) motion analysis is the gold standard for analyzing the biomechanics of the baseball pitching motion. Historically, 3D analysis has been available primarily to elite athletes, requiring advanced cameras, and sophisticated facilities with expensive software. The advent of newer technology, and increased affordability of video recording devices, and smartphone/tablet-based applications has led to increased access to this technology for youth/amateur athletes and sports medicine professionals. Two-dimensional (2D) video analysis is an emerging tool for the kinematic assessment and observational measurement of pitching biomechanics. It is important for providers, coaches, and players to be aware of this technology, its application in identifying causes of arm pain and preventing injury, as well as its limitations. This review provides an in-depth assessment of 2D video analysis studies for pitching, a direct comparison of 2D video versus 3D motion analysis, and a practical introduction to assessing pitching biomechanics using 2D video analysis.