The Relationship Between Trunk Lateral Flexion Angle During Batting and Vertical Jump

Abstract

Purpose: This exploratory study aimed to investigate the relationship between trunk lateral flexion during batting in baseball players, which has been implicated in lumbar injuries, and vertical jump performance as a global motor function indicator, in order to contribute to the prevention of lumbar injuries in baseball players.

Methods: Twenty-eight healthy male junior high school baseball players were included. Vertical jump height was measured using a digital device, and trials not meeting measurement conditions were considered unsuccessful. Trunk lateral flexion angles during batting were measured using motion analysis software. Correlations between jump height and trunk lateral flexion angle during batting were examined. In addition, comparisons of trunk lateral flexion angle and jump height were made between successful jump group and unsuccessful jump group, as well as between players with and without a history of low back pain.

Results: Lumbar and thoracic spine lateral flexion angle showed a significant negative correlation with jump height (p < 0.01). The successful jump group exhibited significantly smaller lumbar and thoracic spine lateral flexion angles and greater jump heights than the unsuccessful jump group (p < 0.05). Players with a history of low back pain demonstrated significantly greater lumbar lateral flexion angles and lower jump heights compared with those without such a history (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The findings of this exploratory study suggest a possible partial association between trunk lateral flexion during batting and vertical jump performance. However, further research is required to clarify the causal relationship between the two movements and to determine their potential utility in sports settings.