Expert: - 4/5/2009

Question
Well, this is my last resort, I am an average bowler with a 177 overall average but usually get At least 1 over 200 game a night. I throw a 14lb roto grip cell (sorry I don't remember my speed but I do throw decently fast I think# I have continual problems with my double jointed thumb! I have pain on both sides of my thumb by the end of the night so bad by the 3rd game it effects how I release no matter how hard I try to push past it. I have had this new ball drilled twice the second time by #a self proclaimed expert in drilling for people with double jointed thumbs) I'm tired of going back to them as they make me feel like a problem but I don't know what to do. I do have to grip the ball to keep from dropping it yet if he hole was smaller my thumb would get stuck and hang up. My thumb swells more each game. OMG, I have had some nightmares with sticking that has really I think affected my game like one time the ball hanging so badly that when it finally released way to late it was 4 feet in the air and landed in the lane to the right of me. I love to bowl but now it's just getting to be a source of pain and aggravation. Is there a special pitch for people with double jointed thumbs? I also have quite large knuckles compared to the size of actual thumb which I think complicates matters even more. Any help would greatly be appreciated!!!!!
Thanks,
Maggie Elrod

Answer
Maggie,
The elements of fit include the span, the pitches and the hole sizes.

Your thumb (double jointed, and very flexible) allows for a longer span than a stiffer player. So, I'd think that the span and pitches don't allow for the ball to just hang in your hand. You're gripping, and the swelling is a result.

The thumb hole needs to be more oval at the knuckle, and pitches and possibly span could be adjusted slightly. Please send a fit sheet and we can discuss further.

Thanks for the questions.