All posts by Javier Granados

All Blogs, Baseball, Uncategorized

Carlos Correa Rib Fracture

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On Wednesday, May 29th, Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa was placed on the Injured List with a fractured rib (a break in a rib bone). Rib fractures are usually diagnosed without an x-ray because they are obvious on evaluation. Rib x-rays use a relatively high dose of radiation and can be low-yield.  If you fracture a rib, you should ask about avoiding an x-ray.

 

Correa told his manager and the media that he felt sore in the rib area after after receiving a massage on Tuesday, May 28th.  But a massage would be unlikely to fracture a rib. Perhaps that’s when he noticed the problem. Fractured ribs are usually due to direct blunt trauma. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. Reports noted that surgery will be not be necessary according to team doctors. Rib fractures always heal naturally. A full recovery is expected.  

 

The main symptom for rib fractures is pain, especially with coughing or other sudden movements involving the chest area. It’s safe to keep active; American football players often play with rib injuries.  It’s more difficult to be an effective player with the pain.

All Blogs, Baseball

Cory Kluber Ulna Fracture

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On Wednesday, May 1st, Cleveland Indians’ starting pitcher Cory Kluber took a line drive to his right arm. After an X-ray and CT scan, Kluber was diagnosed with a non-displaced ulna fracture (meaning it’s just a crack). This will heal naturally. Reports indicate that Kluber will be reevaluated in 3-4 weeks.

The rate at which the bone regains strength depends on the location of the fracture. Fractures closer to the end of bone (the metaphysis) can strengthen a bit quicker than those in the shaft. Treatment is mainly for comfort. A full recovery is expected.

All Blogs, Ankle/Foot, Baseball

Blake Snell Fractured Toe

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On Sunday, April 14th, Tampa Bay Rays’ pitcher Blake Snell dropped a granite decorative stand on his right foot after taking a shower. It fractured his right fourth toe. He was placed on the 10 Day Injured List. Snell is only expected to miss one start according to team officials. His expected return date is April 24th.

A fracture is a break in a bone due to excessive force. Symptoms are similar to a sprain, including swelling, and bruising. With a fracture there is a possibility that the bone can heal with some deformity, although this is not usually a big issue for toes.

The small bones of the foot heal naturally. He can use a hard soled shoe to walk more comfortably. It is safe to pitch, but he may not be effective until it feels better, so it might be weeks before he returns.