The Hidden Risks of Early UCL Surgery: What Young Pitchers Need to Know
Many young pitchers believe Tommy John surgery will make them stronger, but the reality is far different. Dr. Jason Zaremski explains why UCL surgeries are not designed to last decades, why re-injury rates are high, and what young athletes should consider before undergoing surgery.
INJURY PREVENTION & PERFORMANCE BUILDING STRONGER ATHLETES
Coach Leo Young
4/11/20252 min read
The Hidden Risks of Early UCL Surgery: What Young Pitchers Need to Know
Tommy John surgery is becoming more common in teenage pitchers, but many don’t realize the long-term risks. Dr. Jason Zaremski discusses why UCL surgeries were never meant for young players, how they affect career longevity, and why prevention is a better path than surgery.
Do you think Tommy John surgery is being performed too often on young athletes? Share your thoughts in the comments of the video.
Why UCL Surgery Was Never Designed for Teenagers
Tommy John surgery was originally created for older pitchers hoping to extend their careers.
A UCL reconstruction or repair typically lasts only 5-7 years, meaning a young pitcher may need multiple surgeries.
Re-injury rates remain high—many pitchers require a second surgery, which has lower success rates.
Surgery does not restore a pitcher to 100%—mechanics, feel, and performance can change permanently.
The Misconception About Tommy John Surgery
Many young pitchers believe that surgery will make their arm stronger. The reality:
Surgery does not add velocity—any gains come from the rehab process, not the procedure itself.
Rehab is a year-long commitment, with no guarantee of full recovery.
Many pitchers never regain their pre-injury performance levels.
How to Protect Your Arm and Avoid Surgery
To reduce the risk of a UCL tear, young pitchers should focus on:
Managing workload – Limit excessive throwing and track pitch counts.
Building arm strength and mobility – A well-balanced training program reduces stress on the elbow.
Prioritizing mechanics – Poor form increases injury risk.
Understanding the long-term risks – Surgery is not an easy fix and should always be a last resort.
Learn More About Sore to Soaring
At Sore to Soaring, we educate young pitchers on how to train smarter, reduce injury risks, and extend their careers.
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Disclaimer:
The views shared are those of the guest and do not represent an endorsement by Lupos Initiative Inc., DBA Sore to Soaring. This content is for informational purposes only and not medical or training advice. Always consult a qualified professional before starting any exercise or throwing program. No affiliation or compensation exists between Sore to Soaring and any for-profit entity mentioned.
If you wish to learn more about Dr. Zaremski’s work, visit:UFHealth.org.
#Baseball #PitchingInjuries #UCLSurgery #ThrowingHealth #ArmCare #SoreToSoaring #UFHealth
