A blistered ball in baseball pertains to one hit so hard it seems to generate heat. Blistered hands of baseball players are also commonly talked about concerning this sport.
Why do Baseball players have blisters?
Baseball players have blisters on their hands because they frequently throw the ball or hold the bat. This type of injury is unique to baseball players. Usually, blisters can appear on any finger of a baseball player's hand, but it usually forms on the middle finger. This is because the middle finger is the last contact point as it is released whenever there is a fastball.Accordingly, blisters form when the finger's skin is rubbing against a fingernail or the baseball seams. This causes friction and, eventually, irritation. The blisters are painful and can lead to baseball players being sidelined for a game or two because they cannot pitch effectively due to the injury.
Are Blisters That Bad?
Blisters can be minor injuries, but it can also put a player on the disabled list. According to the data, since the year 2010, six Major League Baseball players have been responsible for the seven spots on the disabled list. The worst blister injury resulted in a total of 151 days spent on the disabled list.In the minor league, eight players spent some time on the disabled list due to their blisters.
How to Prevent Blisters?
To prevent blisters, use emery boards, and frequent trimming of the nails. If the baseball player cuts his nails at the finger tips' length, friction will be avoided. Applying hand lotion after the pitching also helps prevent the skin from blistering.How to Treat Blisters?
The skin overlying the blister should get protection. Baseball players tend to remove that skin, but it should remain in place. If the underlying skin is exposed, it could result in an infection.Athletes should, however, drain the blister if it has fluid. The pain in the blister is because of the liquid, and draining it will ease the pain. Before emptying it, the area should get cleaned, and a needle, which is sterilized through heating, will be the tool used to drain the fluid. After draining it, an antibiotic ointment should be used to prevent infection. Lastly, cover the blister with an air-tight bandage. Clean and dress it daily until healed.