Author(s): KAWABATA, M., MIYATA, T., MIYATAKE, K., WATANABE, H., TAKAHIRA, N., Institution: KITASATO UNIVERSITY GRADUATE SCHOOL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE , Country: JAPAN, Abstract-ID: 1192

INTRODUCTION:
Shoulder instability, particularly in overhead athletes, such as baseball pitchers, poses significant challenges in management, often leading to chronic pain and functional impairment. This case report highlights the immediate and sustained benefits of a novel figure-eight taping technique for managing anterior shoulder instability confirmed using ultrasound in a recreational baseball pitcher.
METHODS:
A 41-year-old male unable to pitch for six years due to progressive shoulder pain, which significantly affected his daily life. The initial clinical examination revealed severe pain localized to the rotator cuff interval and posterior shoulder, with marked limitations in range of motion and muscle strength. Ultrasound imaging confirmed significant anterior shoulder instability, characterized by anterior subluxation of the humeral head and inflammation around Bennett’s lesion.
RESULTS:
A novel figure-eight taping technique was used to control shoulder anterior instability while maintaining functional alignment. The intervention led to immediate improvement in muscle strength and a significant reduction in pain, which decreased Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores (1-3/10). Moreover, the patient could perform painless and smooth pitching motions immediately after the intervention. Remarkably, he pitched from 18.44 meters at 85% intensity on the same day. Four months later, the patient successfully returned to competitive pitching, achieving a maximum pitch speed of 115 km/h with minimal pain (NRS, 3/10). The patient continued to practice independently, adhering to the rotator cuff exercises and pitching form corrections learned through the taping intervention. Notably, the positive effects of taping persisted even eight months after the intervention, underscoring the potential of this technique as a valuable non-invasive treatment option within conservative management strategies for shoulder anterior instability.
CONCLUSION:
The figure-eight taping technique demonstrated potential as an effective non-invasive option for managing anterior shoulder instability, aiding sustained pain relief, and functional recovery.