The KOR – a Leader in Softball Physical Therapy
Saving the Softball Athlete
Our softball physical therapy team consists of Donn Dimond, PT, OCS and Kent Morimatsu, DPT.
Examination and Assessment
The key to proper rehabilitation for the softball player is a thorough examination and assessment.
- Using very specific and objective equipment we are able to closely measure the player’s strength and mobility of her shoulder, hips, and trunk.
- Using machine-vision high speed cameras linked to JC Video software, crystal clear frame-by-frame and slow motion playback, we are able to clarify possible mechanical red flags.
- Our goal is to be the detective for the player and address the true cause of their pain and decreased ability to throw.
Strengthening
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Based on the deficits noted during the examination, we strengthen the specific muscles that are found to be weak or not within the proper strength ratios.
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Once the primary muscles are identified and worked on, will also work on the secondary muscles to ensure that the body is able to work together and reach its pain free potential.
Mobilization
Because of the nature of throwing, there is considerable stress placed on the arm. The stress placed through a softball pitcher's arm is equivalant to the stress placed on the arm with a baseball pitch.
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This force, along with shoulder weakness, causes tightening of shoulder. This tightening can cause pain and dysfunction in the shoulder.
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This is why the majority of softball players with pain need aggressive mobilizations to break up the tissue to allow for proper pain free motion.
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Mobilizations paired with exercise have been shown to be more effective for shoulder pain than just exercise or mobilizations by themselves.
Mechanics
Using our machine-vision high speed cameras linked to the JC Video software, we are able to clarify possible mechanical red flags.
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Most common mechanical flags are the hips not opening up soon enough or trunk rotation happens too early in the pitching cycle.
- Based on current research it has been found that a pitcher with increased knee extension, quicker pelvis and hip rotation, and decreased elbow extension at ball release will minimize potential for injury.
Injury Reduction
Team Screenings
Contact us if you would like to have one of our softball experts screen your players for injury risk. The optimal time frame to identify and treat those at risk of injury is 6-8 weeks prior to the start of the season.
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Community Talks
Contact us if you would like to have one of our softball experts talk to your group about the common factors that lead to injuries in softball players and what you can do to minimize the risk.
For Coaches
Contact us if you would like to learn more about how we can assist you in prepararing for the season. We can get your team stronger while decreasing injury risk.
Softball Resources
Fastpitch Softball Injury Prevention by Kent Morimatsu DPT
