DO SOFTER BASEBALLS REDUCE THE SEVERITY OF HEAD IMPACTS?
Modifications in the hardness and compressibility of softballs and baseballs have been developed for use by children of different ages with the intent of reducing the force of impact while maintaining performance characteristics. The NOCSAE has developed standards for these softer baseballs. An expert review indicated that softer balls that meet the NOCSAE standard are less likely to result in serious head injury or commotion cordis (chest injury) attributable to ball impact. See Youth Baseball Protective Equipment Project: Final Report. CPSC. The helmet evaluation tests for softer baseballs have limited validation for direct head impacts. Independent tests of softer baseballs and a check of the NOCSAE standard as a safety test for unprotected head impacts was conducted by the Institute for Preventative Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery Associates in Ann Arbor, Michigan. See Analysis and Comparison of Head Impacts Using Baseballs of Various Hardness and a Hybrid III Dummy. This st
