Rothman Institute surgeons Michael Ciccotti, M.D. and Steven Cohen, M.D. – team doctors of the Phillies – have found that less than half of professional baseball players return to the same level of play after undergoing shoulder or elbow surgery.

Dr. Ciccotti and Dr. Cohen were authors of a study that included 44 players who underwent surgery from 2003 to 2006 by a variety of elite surgeons. Most of the players were pitchers. Pitchers are much more susceptible to arm troubles from the constant throwing they do and the stress this places on their shoulder and elbow joints.

Tommy John surgery has become a common treatment method that has allowed dozens of professional pitchers to return to the mound. The Phillies’ Tom Gordon had Tommy John surgery in 1999 to replace his elbow ligament, but today he continues to battle nagging injuries.

“Surgery is always the last option considered but, if needed, it can be effective,” says Dr. Ciccotti. “Before surgery is recommended, we will always work with a player, whether a professional or amateur, to overcome his injury using physical therapy, rest, and other nonsurgical methods.”

To read more about the study, visit the Philadelphia Inquirer.