Colton's Comeback

For college baseball pitcher Colton Popp, that “pop” in his left thigh two years ago cost him more than just some pop on his fastball. The left quadricep that the Lindsay, Texas, native tore while sprinting sidelined him from baseball, working on the family farm, and physical activities in general.

Because the quad is essential for acceleration and deceleration, and because the left leg is the leg landed on by right-handers like Colton, the Cameron University pitcher was told he would never play baseball again.

Up to the proverbial mound strolled the team at Southwestern Medical Center’s Center for Sports & Rehabilitation (CSR), who typically find the term “never” unnecessarily limiting. When Colton was referred to the Center, they were ready to give more than a pep talk.

Colton, who is studying Agriculture, Business Management, and Business Finance, spent 18 months mostly inactive while letting the injury heal. Because he had not worked out in a while, he had lost muscle tone in his other leg, and his overall physical condition had suffered.

Under the guidance of Amber Smith, PT, and Steven Huddleston, PTA, Colton underwent 10 weeks of physical therapy at CSR, going twice a week to focus on the injured leg and his overall conditioning.

“It was intense,” recalled Colton.

He knew that therapy at CSR was the right choice, but had measured expectations.

“I chose to attend Cameron University for baseball, and I could no longer do that,” he said. “Watching my teammates play and not being able to join them was difficult. Going to therapy was a nice break.”

The therapy sought to manage his leg injury by strengthening the muscles around the quad to provide additional support. Pitching motions, using resistance bands, were incorporated into the rehab as well, with the hope that maybe one day Colton could get back to the mound.

After more than two months of therapy and countless hours of arduous work, that day actually arrived. In April, Colton was able to return to playing baseball without pain, fully able to pitch, run, and lift.

Colton credits Amber and Steven for their incredible care, constant communication and encouragement, and commitment to seeing him succeed.

“I know even today I can still call them and ask for help,” he said.

If you would like more information about a referral or making an appointment at the Center for Sports & Rehabilitation (CSR) at Southwestern Medical Center, call 580.531.4704. A member of our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Why not start your own comeback story today?