Playing baseball with a broken thumb can prove to be quite a challenge. Broken thumbs are often immobilized through the use of a cast or removal splint, making it very difficult to effectively grip a bat. Attempting to remove your splint or swinging a bat with a cast can be dangerous to your thumb as well as those around you, as the bat may swing out of your hand due to poor grip. However, there are ways to keep in shape and continue to sharpen your baseball skills while you recover from a broken thumb.
Step 1
Ask your doctor how long you will be immobilized and what the duration of your recovery will be. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that a thumb fracture is normally immobilized for four to six weeks. If you required surgery to repair your fracture you may have to wait up to three months to regain full strength. Ask your doctor what types of activities you can and cannot perform with a thumb fracture.
Step 2
Stay in shape as you recover. Participate in low impact exercises. Spend 30 minutes per day using a treadmill, going on brisk walks or using an elliptical machine or stationary bike. Participating in regular cardio training can help maintain your endurance while you are injured.
Step 3
Toss the baseball around. If your throwing hand is unaffected you can have a friend help you out. Spend 15 to 20 minutes a day throwing a baseball to your friend to keep your skills sharp.
Step 4
Catch the baseball. If your catching hand is unaffected, have a friend or teammate throw the baseball to you for 15 to 20 minutes per day.
Step 5
Attend team practices. Even though you may not be able to participate in a game or fully practice, it's important to attend all team practices. This way you can continue to be included in team activities and learn new plays that your team is working on.
Tips and Warnings
- Physical therapy following your thumb fracture can help return strength, flexibility and range of motion to your thumb. This can increase your ability to effectively grip a bat following a thumb fracture.
- Never complete any exercise or baseball drill to the point where you are experiencing pain in your broken thumb. If you experience pain, discontinue the exercise immediately and contact your doctor.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; Thumb Fractures; October 2007
- "National Academy of Sports Medicine: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training"; Scott Lucett; 2008
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