5 things we learned from Dr. James Andrews' Tommy John statement

In response to the ever-growing list of pitchers suffering UCL tears in recent years, Dr. James Andrews and the American Sports Medicine Institute released a position statement regarding risk factors and common misconceptions relating to Tommy John surgery.

The document is a fascinating take on the subject from two of the industry's most prominent figures. 

Among the main takeways from the statement is the link between overworked adolescent pitchers and the toll it takes on the ulnar collateral ligament by the time they reach the majors. According to the doctors, it's a major reason why baseball has seen an "epidemic" rise in Tommy John surgery.

It's impossible to reduce the injuries of Jose Fernandez, Matt Moore and Patrick Corbin (to name just a few) to a single document on "How to avoid a UCL tear," but here are five excerpts from the statement we found of particular interest.

Pitchers who get the surgery aren't guaranteed to come back stronger 

While there may be instances of pitchers throwing faster after returning from Tommy John surgery, this was due to the surgeon fixing the problem followed by the pitcher working intensely with the physical therapist, athletic trainer, strength coach, and pitching coach. The rest after surgery may have also helped the athlete’s body. However, performance usually decreases over time for MLB pitchers after Tommy John surgery (similar to the typical decrease over time for healthy MLB pitchers).

Max-effort pitching can increase chances of UCL tear

The best professional pitchers pitch with a range of ball velocity, good ball movement, good control, and consistent mechanics among their pitches. The professional pitcher’s objectives are to prevent baserunners and runs, not to light up the radar gun.

Pitchers with high ball velocity are at increased risk of injury. The higher the ball velocity, the more important to follow the guidelines above.

Use of performance-enhancing drugs could lead to Tommy John surgery

Exercise, rest, and nutrition are vital for a pitcher’s health. Performance-Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) may enable the athlete to achieve disproportionately strong muscles that overwhelm the UCL and lead to injury.

Winter league baseball is a Tommy John risk factor

The UCL and body need time to recover and build strength, so the concept of annual periodization should include adequate rest from full-effort pitching.

Young pitchers who throw a curveball are not at greater risk for UCL tear

Biomechanical research and epidemiologic research have not shown a strong connection between curveball and elbow injuries. Too much competitive pitching and pitching while fatigued are the biggest risk factors.