Ankle Mobility and Lower Extremity Functional Stability Assessment and Intervention for Collegiate Baseball Pitchers

Collegiate baseball pitchers experience a high incidence of upper extremity injuries, often associated with impaired force transfer through the kinetic chain. Limited ankle dorsiflexion may alter stride length and increase injury risk. Purpose: This study aimed to establish a screening tool to identify drive leg ankle imbalances in collegiate pitchers and examine the effects of a targeted exercise program on ankle mobility, functional stability, and stride length. Methods: Twelve male NCAA Division I pitchers completed pre and post testing including ankle range of motion, Y Balance testing, and pitching stride measurements. Results: Significant improvements were observed in drive leg dorsiflexion and posterior medial reach distance, with corresponding increases in composite Y Balance scores. Stride length demonstrated a non significant trend toward a more optimal percentage relative to height. Conclusion: A targeted ankle mobility and stability intervention effectively improved drive leg mobility and lower extremity functional stability, which may support improved pitching mechanics and injury risk reduction.

Level thesis:degree_level

Master’s Degree

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Buck, Zackary

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Pavilionis, Phil

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Murray, Nicholas G
• Bellamy, Jim

Language dc:language.iso

en_US, English

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://scholarwolf.unr.edu/handle/11714/11887

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarwolf.unr.edu:11714/11887