Comparison of Ulnohumeral Joint Space, Ulnar Collateral Ligament Width, and Abnormality in Collegiate Baseball Players Using Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the difference in ulnar collateral ligaments (UCL) between pitchers and position players in collegiate baseball players. Differences were found using musculoskeletal ultrasound and each had both the dominant and non-dominant arms examined. The following research questions guided this study: Is there a difference in ulnohumeral joint space between pitchers and position players, is there a difference in UCL width between pitchers and position players, and is there a difference in the amount of damage to the UCL between pitchers and position players? Both pitchers and position players were found to have changes when compared to their non-dominant side. Position players were found to have significantly wider ligaments than pitchers, which may suggest a difference in forces placed on the elbow. This study introduces ideas that will lead to future research to confirm this data.