Sports Motion Analysis

At Children's, we use computer-based motion analysis technology to detect mechanical inefficiencies in sports motions that can lead to injuries. Sports movements are often difficult to see in real time. Video footage allows for analysis of rapid details during an athlete’s throw, kick, flip, serve, stride or other actions that may be missed by the naked eye.

Motion analysis technology allows us to see, for example, if a baseball pitcher is dropping his elbow when he throws, which can increase stress across the joint and may lead to injury, or look at the shoulder positioning of a gymnast during her back handspring to determine if she had adequate range of motion to help avoid excessive stresses in the back. 

Our clinicians will provide a breakdown of the athlete's specific mechanics as they pertain to his or her sport. Addressing mechanical inefficiencies may help reduce the risk of injury and may also improve overall performance. A customized home exercise program, provided by our clinicians, will help athletes correct these errors and reinforce proper form and technique.

Our sport specialties include, but are not limited to:

• Baseball
• Cheerleading
• Dance
• Golf
• Gymnastics

• Lacrosse
• Running
• Soccer
• Softball
• Tennis 

We offer three types of analysis: 

1. An in-clinic sports motion analysis at one of our 14 sports medicine locations
   • This one-on-one session is 60 to 90 minutes in one of our clinics and includes a full physical therapy evaluation, video analysis with immediate feedback and a customized home exercise program. 
2. A group analysis session at your gym or field
   
   • A member of our staff will come and record a group of athletes. The minimum number of athletes required for a group session depends on the sport.
   • Each athlete is allotted a 20- to 30-minute session performed on-site at your field, school, complex or studio. This session includes video analysis with immediate feedback and a standard sport-specific home exercise program.
3. A video upload analysis that can be completed remotely
   • Upload up to three videos of the same motion (plié, handspring, pitch, etc.). We will analyze them remotely and send the videos back with a customized home exercise program within five business days.