The Curveball Misconception

For years, parents and coaches have operated under the belief that young pitchers shouldn't be throwing curveballs because it will damage their developing arms and elbows. However, this long-standing myth has been debunked by recent research from sports medicine experts. Throwing curveballs does not actually put any more stress on a child's arm than throwing other pitches.

The idea that curveballs are unnatural and put excessive torque on elbows dates back decades. It led to strict guidelines that young pitchers under a certain age, often 14, should not be allowed to throw curveballs. This was based on the assumption that a curveball's off-center spin axis placed abnormal forces on a child's immature joints and ligaments.

What the Research Shows

Multiple biomechanics studies over the past 15 years have conclusively shown this curveball fear to be unfounded. Throwing curveballs causes no more elbow stress than other common pitches when thrown properly.

• A 2009 study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found "no significant differences" in shoulder rotation, elbow valgus torque, or other kinetic measurements between curveballs and fastballs thrown by high school pitchers.
• Other research confirms that pitch volume, poor mechanics, and lack of rest are far greater risk factors for injury than pitch type alone.

Related Terms: youth pitching mechanics, curveball safety, pitching elbow stress

Focus on Mechanics and Moderation

Rather than being an inherently risky pitch, the key factor is ensuring kids learn correct curveball mechanics from qualified coaches. Poor curveball mechanics with improper wrist positioning can potentially increase arm stress. But when thrown with the proper grip and arm path, curveballs don't add additional forces on the elbow in relation to other pitches.

To keep young athletes healthy:

• Emphasize proper mechanics for all pitches
• Limit total pitch count, not just pitch type
• Include rest periods and deload weeks
• Take 2-3 months off from throwing annually

Curveballs, when taught right and used responsibly as part of a healthy training plan, can be an important pitch for a young pitcher to develop.

The Bottom Line

So parents, if your child is throwing a properly coached curveball, they are not going to damage their arm. Modern sports science shows this outdated belief is a myth that should be put to rest. With the right guidance and training plan, kids can safely incorporate curveballs as they develop a full pitching repertoire.

Learn More with VeloU

At VeloU, we specialize in evidence-based pitching instruction, including remote training programs tailored for developing pitchers. Whether your child is looking to safely add a curveball or improve overall velocity, we provide:

• Free mechanical analysis
• Two free weeks in our remote pitching app
• 1-on-1 coaching from certified experts

Sign up for your free analysis today and help your athlete throw safer, harder, and smarter.