Expert: Chip Aki - 8/14/2009

Question
Mr Chip

        I want ask you is i have a reverse pitch which is
        causing me presure on my thumb hole and me get
        callasus on top of my thumb and both sides,should
        i change to a reverse pitch to reduce the problem.What
        wil big difference between the to pitches and action
        on the ball.

                                         thanks
                                          EFRAIN


Answer
If you are having problems on both sides of your thumb, I would look at the hole size first.  It may be that you need more of an oval hole instead of a round one.
As far as the top of the thumb goes, pitch and/or span could be the issue there, in addition to the size of the hole.  
Too much reverse will cause you to have to squeeze the ball creating the callous.
Too long or too short of a span will do the same thing.
If your thumb is really flat, the hole may be too small on the sides,(creating the callous there), and too big front to back.  That will cause you to have to squeeze the ball to hold on to it.

To me, the thumb size seems to be the most likely issue.  Try using some bowlers tape, white in the front of the thumb hole and black on the back of the thumb hole.  The front is towards the finger holes.  This will oval the thumb hole and should help.  If it works, and you dont want to use much tape, the pro shop can install an oval thumb insert.

Good luck,
Chip