A Novel Figure-Eight Taping Technique for Managing Anterior Shoulder Instability in a Recreational Pitcher: A Case Report.

Abstract

Background and purpose: 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 describes the immediate and sustained effects of a novel figure-eight taping technique for a recreational baseball player with shoulder instability.

Case description: A 41-year-old male had been unable to pitch for six years due to progressive shoulder pain, significantly impacting his daily life. The 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.

Intervention and discussion: A novel figure-eight taping technique was used to control shoulder anterior instability while maintaining functional alignment. The intervention resulted in immediate improvement in neuromuscular control and significantly reduced pain, with Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores improving to 1-3 out of 10. Moreover, the subject could perform painless and smooth pitching motions immediately after the intervention. Remarkably, the subject pitched from 18.44 meters at 85% intensity on the same day. Four months later, the subject successfully returned to competitive pitching, achieving a maximum pitch speed of 115 km/h with minimal pain (NRS, 3/10). The subject continued to practice independently, adhering to the rotator cuff exercises and pitching form corrections that occurred with the taping intervention. Notably, the positive effects of taping and exercises 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, supporting sustained pain relief and functional recovery.

Evidence level: 5.