Expert: Susie Minshew - 7/6/2009

Question
Dear Susie, I took a 20 year break from bowling until my daughter recently expressed an interest in it.  It didn't take me long to get back into the swing of things, but I am having problems with the middle finger of my right hand (right handed bowler).  I was using my ball from long ago, and noticed that while bowling (usually three games), my finger would swell until it was downright painful.  My finger still fit the ball, but the middle joint felt like a nerve was being irritated (and it hurts almost back to the middle of my palm).  I bought a new ball and had it drilled (holes are larger) and I thought it would help, but it is still bothering me.  Are there any solutions?

Answer
Since your hand is not the same as it was 20 years ago, getting a new fit is imperative. In fact, you should have your fit checked a minimum of yearly to avoid the very issue you have. The damage has been done. However, a qualified Pro Shop Technician can do a couple of things with the fit to relieve the pain until your hand heals, which may take months to years.
If you told whoever drilled your new ball for you of your pain, see them again. Tell them it's not any better with the new ball. If they cannot or will not adjust the pitches and/or span to relieve your pain, find another Technician.
By the way, make sure your daughter and her growing hands and feet are checked every six months or so. Usually when they change shoe sizes, the hand should definitely be evaluated as well.
House balls make everyone equally bad and can really hurt. They are okay if you only bowl a couple of times a year but more frequency warrants equipment that fits you.