Core to the Curveball: Linking Lumbopelvic Control to Elbow Stress in Pitchers

In this episode of Strength In Knowledge, we connect the dots between core stability and arm health in baseball pitchers. We dive into the recent study by DeZee and colleagues, which explores how lumbopelvic control during a simple step-down task relates to elbow-varus torque during pitching—an essential factor in UCL injury risk.The findings? A stable base may be just as critical as arm mechanics when it comes to protecting the elbow. We unpack what this means for movement assessments, injury prevention, and performance strategies in overhead athletes.🧠💪 From hips to fingertips, tune in to learn how the kinetic chain truly operates—and why a single-leg step-down might belong in your pitching screen.Association Between Lumbopelvic Stability During aSingle-Legged Step Down and Elbow-Varus Torque During Baseball PitchingZachary J. DeZee, BS; Adam J. Barrack, MS, CSCS; Kayla Bucci, BS;Ryan J. Zerega, MS; Rachel K. Straub, PhD, CSCS;Andrew R. Karduna, PhD; Lori A. Michener, PhD, PT, ATCPMCID: PMC11866787 /DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0697.23