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Baseball hardness as a risk factor for eye injuries.
P F Vinger1, S M Duma, J Crandall
1Vision Performance and Safety Service, Tufts University School of Medicine, Medford, Mass, USA. vingven@tiac.net
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|March 24, 1999
Summary
Softer baseballs reduce brain injury risk without increasing eye injury risk. Baseballs with 15-20% of major league hardness are recommended for youth baseball, with protective eyewear further minimizing eye injuries.
Area of Science:
- Sports medicine
- Ophthalmology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Baseball is a leading cause of eye injuries in young athletes.
- Softer baseballs may reduce brain and cardiac injury risk.
- Concerns exist that softer balls could increase orbital intrusion and eye injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess orbital intrusion and eye injury potential of varying baseball hardness.
- To determine if players can discern differences in baseball hardness.
- To inform recommendations for youth baseball safety.
Main Methods:
- Measured orbital force and penetration of different hardness baseballs using an artificial orbit.
- Assessed subjects' ability to differentiate baseball hardness based on age and experience.
Main Results:
- Softer baseballs generated less peak orbital force and force onset rate.
- The softest baseballs (10% MLB hardness) showed greater orbital intrusion.
- Younger players (under 14) and adults struggled to differentiate ball hardness at certain levels.
Conclusions:
- Soft baseballs pose a significant, but not increased, risk of eye injury compared to standard baseballs.
- Baseballs at 15-20% MLB hardness are recommended for youth play, offering safety and feel benefits.
- Protective eyewear meeting ASTM standards is crucial for minimizing eye injuries in youth baseball.