How to Decrease the Risk of Tommy John Injuries

How to Decrease the Risk of Tommy John Injuries

So, you wanna talk about Tommy John injuries? You know, the thing that happens when a pitcher’s arm goes *snap*! Yep, that’s right. It’s like your arm suddenly becomes a rubber band that lost its stretch. So if you don’t wanna end up with your doc saying “Hey, we need to operate on ya,” then listen up! I got some super funny tips on how to keep your garm safe and sound. Like, how to avoid being the next internet meme for throwing like a noodle.

Stay Warm like a Toasty Marshmallow

First off, let’s talk about warming up. You ever see a cat jump straight up from sleeping? Yeah, that won’t work for you buddy. Before you pitch or throw anything—like your annoying little brother—get warmed up like you’re about to take a nap in the sun. Stretch those arms and do some silly moves. Maybe dance around like nobody’s watching (but really everyone is). It gets blood flowing and also make sure you look ridiculous enough to get a good laugh before you hurl that ball.

Use Proper Mechanics or Just Look Cool

Okay, so here’s the secret sauce: mechanics. When you throw, use your whole body—not just your arm! Pretend you’re a superhero ready to save the world (or just strike out some kids at the playground). If you just fling your arm around like it’s trying to fly away, guess what? You might end up needing Tommy John surgery faster than it takes to eat a slice of pizza. Plus, then you’ll have no pizza left for post-game snacks.

Rest Like You’re on Vacay

Resting may sound boring but trust me – it can be fun! Ever heard of taking breaks? If not, where have you been living – under a rock? Your muscles need time off just like everyone else after running all day at dodgeball. Plan rest days like they’re mini holidays and take time to relax. Maybe watch cartoons or practice lying on the couch perfectly still while avoiding adulting responsibilities.

Hydration Nation

Let’s be honest here; nobody wants an injury because they forgot why water is important! Drink lots of water—like you’re in the desert looking for an oasis! Staying hydrated keeps everything working fine and dandy so don’t end up feeling as dry as last week’s toast. Plus who doesn’t love using fancy cups while drinking water?

Strength Training That Doesn’t Suck

This one sounds tough but hear me out: strength training can actually be kinda fun cause there are sooo many ways to do it! Tossing weights around might not be your thing but think about playing tug-of-war against your dog or lifting stuff at home pretending it’s heavy boulders from ancient times! Building muscle helps support that precious throwing arm so channel your inner Hercules!

Listen To Your Body – It Knows Things

Ever had one of those weird feelings in your body when something is wrong? Yeahhh listen to that! Don’t ignore pain like it’s yesterday’s homework! If something feels off—like someone has swapped out your arm with spaghetti—take it slow man! Letting yourself recover means fewer trips to scary hospital places where they make ya wear gowns!

Limit Pitch Counts Like Binge-Watching Shows

Yo, have ya ever tried binge-watching Netflix for 12 hours straight? Sounds awesome until it doesn’t right? Same goes for pitching! Set limits on how much throwing you do in practice games cause too much can lead straight into Tommy John’s arms—in an unwanted way haha. Keep track of pitches and take breaks every now and then…like getting popcorn during movie night!

Fun FAQ Section

Question: What even is this Tommy John thing?

Answer: It’s when pitchers need surgery because their elbow gets hurty after throwing too much or too hard LOL.

Question: Do I really have to stretch before throwing?

Answer: YESSSS!! Stretching helps because skipping will make you feel more stiff than grandma in winter!

Question: How long should I rest?

Answer: Think about resting as recharging batteries—you want full power not half dead vibes!

Question: Can I eat chips while practicing strength training?

Answer: Uhh yeah but maybe eat veggies too if ya wanna become crazy strong (not just chip strong!).

Question: What happens if I don’t drink enough water?

Answer: Then you’ll feel like a raisin instead of juicy watermelon trust me—not good dude!

Question: Is listening to my body really important?

Answer: Yup!! Your body tells ya what it needs just like how ice cream calls out at midnight sometimes!

Question: Can anyone get Tommy John injuries?

Answer: Pretty much anyone who throws hard consistently can get into trouble—all ages welcome in this club no thanks tho!!

So there ya go buddy! Follow these funny tips and keep that arm safe from becoming spaghetti sauce material. Let’s throw with style and laughter instead of pain—because we all agree hospital gowns are NOT fashionable amirite?