Javier Báez, professional baseball player for the Detroit Tigers, to undergo hip arthroscopy surgery

Posted on: September 23rd, 2024 by Our Team

Javier Báez, the shortstop for the Detroit Tigers and two-time All-Star, is set to undergo hip arthroscopy in the near future. Báez’s decision to address his hip underscores the importance of maintaining peak physical condition in professional baseball.

Dr. Shane J Nho, a leading sports surgeon specializing in hip preservation at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, explains what this procedure entails, the reasons athletes like Báez might need it, and what the road to recovery looks like.

What is Hip Arthroscopy?

Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a variety of hip conditions, with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and acetabular labral tears being among the most common. These conditions can be particularly challenging for athletes, as they often result in pain, reduced mobility, and impaired performance on the field. It is minimally invasive in that the entire procedure is done through 3 small incisions the size of a buttonhole while the patient under general anesthesia.

Why Would Javy Báez Need Hip Arthroscopy?

For elite athletes like Báez, hip health is crucial. The hip joint is central to almost every movement in baseball, from quick lateral shifts to explosive sprints. Unfortunately, conditions like FAI—a scenario where the bones of the hip joint are abnormally shaped and rub against each other—can lead to significant discomfort and long-term damage if left untreated.

Báez may also be dealing with an acetabular labral tear, another common reason for hip arthroscopy. The acetabular labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the hip socket, providing stability to the joint.  Tears can occur with sudden impact movements that are common in sports like baseball, hockey, and running. Tears in the labrum can cause pain, clicking, and a sense of instability, making it difficult for athletes to perform at their best.

There may also be less common reasons such as hip instability syndrome or tendinitis that may require a look inside the joint.

How much Time will Báez be Out?

The recovery period following hip arthroscopy is usually 4-6 months but can last up to one year before one can return to sport, especially in the professional setting. Rehabilitation is a critical component of recovery after hip arthroscopy. Following surgery, physical therapy typically begins shortly to encourage healing and restore function to the hip joint. This rehab process is tailored to the individual, focusing on improving joint mobility, reintroducing weight-bearing activities, and gradually building strength.

Dr. Nho emphasizes that a well-structured rehabilitation program is essential for athletes like Báez to return to their sport. “Rehabilitation involves a progressive exercise program, manual therapy techniques, and patient education on proper body mechanics and activity modification. The goal is not just to get the athlete back on the field, but to ensure they can perform at their highest level without risking re-injury.” Hip rehabilitation typically follows a 4-phase goal progression:

1. Joint Protection and Irritation Avoidance
2. Non-Compensatory Gait Progression
3. Return to Pre-injury Level
4. Return to Sport

As Báez prepares for this surgery, fans can be optimistic that with proper care and rehabilitation, he will return to the diamond stronger than ever ready to possibly return for spring training.