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What Every Baseball Athlete Should Know About A Tommy John Injury

As a collegiate athlete, you know the importance of taking extra precautions to continually prevent common injuries from impeding your playing time and performance.


One of the most serious injuries that can threaten not only performance but entire careers is a Tommy John injury, and pitchers are the most at risk.


It's vitally important for young baseball athletes to be aware of the repercussions such an injury can cause which is why this blog gives you everything you need to know about the dreaded Tommy John Injury.


What Is A Tommy John Injury?


A Tommy John injury, also known as an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear, is a common injury in baseball and other throwing sports.


This type of injury occurs when the UCL, which is one of the major ligaments in the elbow, is torn.


The UCL provides stability to the elbow joint during throwing, and repetitive stress can lead to small tears that eventually become complete tears.


How Long Does A Tommy John Injury Last?


Recovery time varies from individual to individual and depends on a variety of factors including age, extent of the injury, and response to rehabilitation.


On average, you can expect to be out of the game for at least a year for rehabilitation and recovery. However, it is essential to note that rehabilitation should never be rushed as it can lead to re-injury and ultimately end your career for good.


Therefore, it is imperative that if you're recovering from a Tommy John injury to work with a professional who can tailor a recovery program that meets your specific needs.


What Does It Feel Like?


A Tommy John injury is one of the most painful experiences an athlete can go through.

This injury primarily targets the elbow, an essential joint for sports that require throwing such as baseball.


Athletes who suffer from this injury describe it as a sharp pain in the elbow, accompanied by other signs like swelling, stiffness, and a tingling sensation around the arm.


Some athletes even report a sense of weakness and an inability to perform their usual throwing motions.


This injury can derail a promising career, which is why it is essential to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you have a Tommy John injury.


How Do You Fix A Tommy John Injury?


The best way to fix a Tommy John Injury is, unfortunately, through surgery.


The surgery involves replacing the damaged ligament with a tissue graft harvested from the patient's own body or from a donor.


After the surgery, patients undergo a rehabilitation program that involves gradual stretching and strengthening exercises to regain their strength and function.


It is important to note that the success rate of Tommy John surgery is high, and with proper care, athletes can return to their sports and achieve their goals, but it could take a long time.


How Can Physical Therapy Aid Recovery From A Tommy John Injury?


Physical therapy is an essential component of the UCLR rehabilitation process, as it helps strengthen and stabilize the affected area, improves the range of motion, and promotes proper healing.


It is crucial to work with a physical therapist who specializes in sports medicine (like us!) to ensure the most effective rehabilitation plan for your individual needs.


Through a combination of targeted exercises, manual therapy, and other specialized techniques, physical therapy is a key element in a successful recovery from a Tommy John injury so you can get back out on the field and perform at your best once again.


Is Your Athlete Season Ready?


You may think your college athlete is ready for the upcoming baseball season, they're performing well at training and on the field, but there's that tiny doubt in your mind that there could be something off...


I have the perfect solution to your worries, a season readiness assessment. During this assessment, you will be able to get your athlete a full check to make sure they aren't going to be prone to injury, and haven't got any existing or previous injuries that are going to impact their performance.


You can also talk to an expert physical therapist and get a professional opinion putting your mind to rest!


If you think a season readiness assessment would ease your worries, you can arrange one by filling in our simple web form or give us a call at (609) 933-9922 if you would prefer to speak to a member of the team on the telephone.


More Free Resources For Preventing Baseball Injuries


If you're not sure you're ready to come and see us in the clinic yet, that's okay! Here are free resources to help you and your child prevent shoulder pain at home.

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