Musculoskeletal modelling and predictive simulation of baseball pitching to improve performance and mitigate injury using forward dynamics and optimal control

An optimized forward dynamic model of baseball pitching was developed to assess muscle contributions to valgus torque on the elbow, with the goal of minimizing ulnar collateral ligament loads without compromising ball speed. A musculoskeletal model was created in OpenSim 4.5 to replicate the motion of Major League Baseball pitchers, incorporating the muscles responsible for resisting or producing valgus moments, which are known to affect ulnar collateral ligament loads. Using an optimal control framework in OpenSim Moco, muscle activations and actuator contributions were evaluated at various pitch speeds. Results demonstrated how optimized pitching motions differed from traditional techniques, suggesting kinematic adjustment strategies to reduce ligament load. For instance, faster pitches exhibited greater contralateral trunk tilt and higher arm slot, while slower pitches demonstrated greater ipsilateral trunk tilt with a lower arm slot (sidearm). These findings show the potential of our