Tommy John Surgery Myths: Why It’s Not a Guaranteed Fix for Pitchers

Tommy John Surgery Myths: Why It’s Not a Guaranteed Fix for Pitchers

Tommy John surgery has become so common that many young pitchers assume it’s part of the process—or even think it will help them throw harder. But that’s a dangerous misconception. Dr. Jason Zaremski explains why UCL surgery is not a performance booster, not every pitcher fully recovers, and why prevention is always better than repair.

Do you think too many young pitchers believe in these myths about Tommy John surgery? Share your thoughts in the comments.

The Biggest Myths About Tommy John Surgery

❌ Myth #1: “Tommy John surgery makes you throw harder.”
✔ Reality: Any velocity gains after surgery come from rehab, strength training, and mechanical improvements—not the surgery itself.

❌ Myth #2: “Tommy John surgery guarantees a full recovery.”
✔ Reality: Some pitchers never regain their previous velocity, command, or durability.

❌ Myth #3: “Once you have Tommy John surgery, your arm is as good as new.”
✔ Reality: The arm is never the same. Throwing mechanics, arm feel, and durability can all be affected post-surgery.

❌ Myth #4: “If I get injured, I’ll just have the surgery and be fine.”
✔ Reality: Rehab takes a full year or more, and not every player successfully returns to their pre-injury level.

Since Tommy John surgery isn’t a guaranteed fix, young pitchers should focus on avoiding injury in the first place.

• Manage workload – Limit throwing volume and track innings across all teams.

• Prioritize recovery – Take breaks from throwing to let the arm recover properly.

• Develop proper mechanics – Poor throwing form puts unnecessary stress on the elbow.

• Strengthen the whole body – A strong lower half and core help reduce stress on the arm.

Learn More About Sore to Soaring

At Sore to Soaring, we teach young athletes, parents, and coaches how to train smarter, recover better, and avoid preventable injuries.

Learn more at:

SoreToSoaring.org

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.

This is for informational purposes and is not an endorsement or promotion by Lupos Initiative Inc. DBA Sore to Soaring.

#Baseball #TommyJohnSurgery #UCLInjury #PitchingHealth #InjuryPrevention #SoreToSoaring