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Main
Date: 24 Jun 2005 04:25:14
From: 1966olds
Subject: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Hi,
I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
those practice throws.
Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
Larry
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Date: 30 Jun 2005 03:30:11
From: Blue Hound Technologies
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Shove your thumb in ICE 15 minutes before bowling, or take an advil.
"1966olds" <news.20.1988@spamgourmet.com > wrote in message
news:1119612314.263026.184620@g49g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
> Hi,
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
> those practice throws.
>
> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
> on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
> equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
> to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
> bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
> some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
> through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
> would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
>
> Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
> Larry
>
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| | |
Date: 30 Jun 2005 23:47:37
From: Phil Paskos
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
I use a little bit of Chap Stick on my thumb. Just a bit makes a big
difference.
Phil P
>> Hi,
>>
>> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
>> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
>> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
>> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
>> those practice throws.
>>
>> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
>> on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
>> equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
>> to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
>> bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
>> some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
>> through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
>> would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
>>
>> Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
>> Larry
>>
>
>
|
| |
Date: 26 Jun 2005 08:01:51
From: 1966olds
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Well.. option #2 is actually what I have been doing and as I mentioned,
the problem is much less serious this year than the previous two. And I
have been adding and removing tape during the course of the year with
no problems. But I thought I had already succeeded last summer in
having the thumbholes on all of my bowlingballs opened up enough to
accomodate my "maximum swelling size".
Last year, the problem severely hampered me because the ball was too
tight for the about 7 frames to the entire first game, or for about 20
minutes, if only practicing. This year, its anywhere from 1 to 3 frames
or about 5-10 minutes of practice, so more of a minor inconvenience
than a major problem. Still... really want to avoid bringing in all 10
balls to have their thumb holes opened up just a smidgen, and looking
for alternatives.
I appreciate ALL the suggestions given, though ironically this year
the short duration of the swelling doesn't warrant many of the more
expensive or complex methods described here.
I am a relatively small framed person, but have gained 30 pounds over
the last 3 or 4 years, and about 10 of those are since last year. Also
developed (or was diagnosed with) slightly high blood pressure two
years ago, for which I am taking Diovan. Mentioning this as I am
wondering if these two factors are maybe affecting my salt levels and
that in turn is affecting the swelling?
The swelling is actually present all year-round, just more noticeable
in the summer. In the cooler weather, though, even though the thumb
shrinks after I've started bowling, its still small enough to easily
fit in the thumbhole at the beginning of play.
Yesterday, I did try putting my handkerchief into the thumbhole and
then gradually working my thumb into the hole, and was able to insert
my thumb into the ball comfortably afterward. Not immediately, but
much faster than would have been the case otherwise. I had overlooked
this remedy because last year the hole size was much too small so it
was no help at that time.
And I do have one or two bowling balls that even though they are
supposed to be drilled identically to the rest either have slightly
larger thumbholes or just feel that way, so I can kind of rely on those
balls. Just would rather not be limited that way. In fact...one of them
does have a nylon slug in the thumb, and does seem to remain at a more
constant feel sizewise. Can always ask for a glass of ice water from
the bar too, but don't want to have to rely on that being available
every trip to the lanes (sometimes the bar is closed).
Regardless of what I do, I appreciate everyone's input and all your
answers will help me determine best solution. And its also reassuring
to be reminded that other bowlers have experienced the same or similar
difficulties.
Thank you,
Larry
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Date: 25 Jun 2005 14:05:36
From: Mark
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Jeff Rife wrote:
> There are several devices that allow you to change the size of the thumbhole
> on the fly without tape.
>
> I use a product called "Tom's Thumb" that I had installed by Frankie May at
> the Visionary booth in Baton Rouge. We saw somebody with another system,
> but I can't recall who made it.
Turbo 2n1 products "Switch Grip" system.
Mark
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Date: 24 Jun 2005 16:26:27
From: Mark
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
>Nobody suggested thumb slugs
Funny - I'd expect many of us made the perhaps false assumption that
*everyone* uses slugs with resin balls.
>or simple old baby powder.
I'd use easy slide which is teflon which won't absorb moisture and cake
up which can be a different problem. That said, if a bowler always
needs a grip aids to reduce friction that would suggest a fit problem
that should be fixed at the cause which is the grip.
FWIW - I also swell up in the summer and I hate removing material from
the thumb holes because then I have to reslug them in the winter (or
get new equipment!!!)
Mark
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Date: 24 Jun 2005 16:00:21
From: 1966olds
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Thank you everyone that replied. However, it looks as if I need to
explain a bit more.
It is not just stickiness. When I first arrive at the bowling center, I
literally cannot get my thumb into the ball at all. Not even past the
joint. Before anyone says that the hole needs to be opened up, I had
all of the thumbholes on my equipment made larger last summer. It was
plenty hot and humid and I had them all sized to the largest size my
thumb reached at the height of the summer weather conditions.
And during the winter....well actually by fall, as soon as the
temperature dropped into the 60's for daytime highs, I already had to
use some tape for sizing or at least use some "Grip Cream" to keep the
ball from sliding off my thumb. Now, its summer again, and while it was
in the 70's I was ok. Also wasn't bowling quite as many games. But
having bowled about 43 games in a 5 or 6 day span, and the temperatures
up in the 80's or better, the problem has returned. Not AS bad as last
year (when the thumb was too tight for the entire match), but still too
snug at first to be effective.
Am I doomed to keep enlarging my thumbholes every summer until
eventually I'll need 10 or more pieces of tape in the winter? I do
appreciate all the suggestions, yet really want to find a way to
minimize the swelling in between bowling dates, which would end the
vicious cycle of making the thumbholes bigger, then growing a larger
thumb, then making them bigger still.
I have heard about the salt intake before, and that seems like
something I can control long-term, but unless I can do something short
term to maybe jack up my salt levels briefly a couple hours before
bowling so that maybe they would drop by game time, not sure I can
manipulate the levels enough to achieve fast results.
I also remember hearing something about the potato solution. Does that
actually heal or shrink the thumb for some time afterward? Or would
someone have to keep the potato handy and store their thumb in it to
keep it from swelling back up later the same night? And... since its
the hot weather that's a contributing factor, wouldn't the potato spoil
in the car? Unless I keep one in my locker at the bowling center?
So, am looking for either some way to bring down the thumb size rapidly
for just the short term, or alternatively, do so slowly, but with long
term effect.
Hope that clarifies things some.
Larry
Darby wrote:
> "twobirds" <
> > 1966olds wrote:
> >> Hi,
> >>
> >> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
> >> too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
> >> after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
> >> is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
> >> ball for those practice throws.
> >>
> >> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
> >> summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
> >> adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
> >> bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
> >> can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
> >> size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
> >> cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
> >> will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
> >> leagues too in the meantime.
> >
> > Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
> > reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball is
> > holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your thumb
> > into the ball, even if it is tight.
> >
> > So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
> > powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball off
> > your thumb.
>
> I'd suggest you only put the powder on the back of your thumb, e ven a
> slight amount can cause the ball to slip out too soon.
> >
> > Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
> > difference, IMHO.
>
> Good thinking. Some of the resin can seep into the thumb hole. I use slugs,
> so it didn't occur to me that it could be a sticky thumb hole. If the ball
> is being stored in some place with a temperature difference from the center
> where you are bowling the thumb hole could be sweating too. It has happened
> to me at tournaments when I was too lazy to take my equipment up to the room
> with me and I had an early morning shift. Dry it out well.
> Dar
>
> >
> > My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
> > often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion is
> > a
> > good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for one.
> > One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad enough
> > that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that I
> > can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at least
> > I
> > can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
> >
> >
> >
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Date: 25 Jun 2005 12:25:52
From: Joe Zachar
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
--------------090303000304080807030409
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
I think someone a while back suggested that you can put your thumb in a
glass of ice water to get the swelling down.
Anyway, after you start to bowl and get into a few pressure shots there
is a tendency for the thumb to shrink. This is due to the body's
chemical release during stress.
I have the same swelling problem with my thumb side to side (instead of
front to back). I have to open up the thumb holes so I can get my thumb
in and then use tape as my bowling continues. If you use several balls
this can be a problem. You probably will use one ball more often than
the others. So you have to be aware to have all the balls with the
proper fit (with tape added or removed as the season continues) so when
you have to go to another ball the fit is right. And, yes a lot of tape
in the thumb hole is a problem in the summer. I find that the tape has
a tendency to move around in the thumb hole more often in the summer
than the winter and this causes the glue on the back of the tape to come
in contact with my thumb.
Someone also mentioned a new product on the market that allows you to
change the thumb inserts (the main thumb insert is larger than a normal
one and allows for other inserts to be added). Since the system can be
installed in every ball you have you just have to remove the inner
sleeve insert from one ball and put it into the next ball you want to
use (you don't have to have a set of inserts for each ball since one set
can be used in all the balls). This system is intended to eliminate the
use of tape (since you can just change the size of the insert). I have
not used this product but if you thumb problem is as bad as you claim
this might be what you are looking for to solve your problem.
Joe Z
1966olds wrote:
>Thank you everyone that replied. However, it looks as if I need to
>explain a bit more.
>
>It is not just stickiness. When I first arrive at the bowling center, I
>literally cannot get my thumb into the ball at all. Not even past the
>joint. Before anyone says that the hole needs to be opened up, I had
>all of the thumbholes on my equipment made larger last summer. It was
>plenty hot and humid and I had them all sized to the largest size my
>thumb reached at the height of the summer weather conditions.
>
>And during the winter....well actually by fall, as soon as the
>temperature dropped into the 60's for daytime highs, I already had to
>use some tape for sizing or at least use some "Grip Cream" to keep the
>ball from sliding off my thumb. Now, its summer again, and while it was
>in the 70's I was ok. Also wasn't bowling quite as many games. But
>having bowled about 43 games in a 5 or 6 day span, and the temperatures
>up in the 80's or better, the problem has returned. Not AS bad as last
>year (when the thumb was too tight for the entire match), but still too
>snug at first to be effective.
>
>Am I doomed to keep enlarging my thumbholes every summer until
>eventually I'll need 10 or more pieces of tape in the winter? I do
>appreciate all the suggestions, yet really want to find a way to
>minimize the swelling in between bowling dates, which would end the
>vicious cycle of making the thumbholes bigger, then growing a larger
>thumb, then making them bigger still.
>
>I have heard about the salt intake before, and that seems like
>something I can control long-term, but unless I can do something short
>term to maybe jack up my salt levels briefly a couple hours before
>bowling so that maybe they would drop by game time, not sure I can
>manipulate the levels enough to achieve fast results.
>
>I also remember hearing something about the potato solution. Does that
>actually heal or shrink the thumb for some time afterward? Or would
>someone have to keep the potato handy and store their thumb in it to
>keep it from swelling back up later the same night? And... since its
>the hot weather that's a contributing factor, wouldn't the potato spoil
>in the car? Unless I keep one in my locker at the bowling center?
>
>So, am looking for either some way to bring down the thumb size rapidly
>for just the short term, or alternatively, do so slowly, but with long
>term effect.
>
>Hope that clarifies things some.
>
>Larry
>
>
>Darby wrote:
>
>
>>"twobirds" <
>>
>>
>>>1966olds wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>>Hi,
>>>>
>>>>I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
>>>>too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
>>>>after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
>>>>is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
>>>>ball for those practice throws.
>>>>
>>>>Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
>>>>summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
>>>>adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
>>>>bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
>>>>can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
>>>>size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
>>>>cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
>>>>will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
>>>>leagues too in the meantime.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
>>>reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball is
>>>holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your thumb
>>>into the ball, even if it is tight.
>>>
>>>So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
>>>powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball off
>>>your thumb.
>>>
>>>
>>I'd suggest you only put the powder on the back of your thumb, e ven a
>>slight amount can cause the ball to slip out too soon.
>>
>>
>>>Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
>>>difference, IMHO.
>>>
>>>
>>Good thinking. Some of the resin can seep into the thumb hole. I use slugs,
>>so it didn't occur to me that it could be a sticky thumb hole. If the ball
>>is being stored in some place with a temperature difference from the center
>>where you are bowling the thumb hole could be sweating too. It has happened
>>to me at tournaments when I was too lazy to take my equipment up to the room
>>with me and I had an early morning shift. Dry it out well.
>>Dar
>>
>>
>>
>>>My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
>>>often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion is
>>>a
>>>good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for one.
>>>One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad enough
>>>that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that I
>>>can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at least
>>>I
>>>can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>
>
>
--------------090303000304080807030409
Content-Type: text/html; charset=us-ascii
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN" >
<html >
<head >
<title ></title>
</head >
<body >
I think someone a while back suggested that you can put your thumb in a glass
of ice water to get the swelling down. <br >
<br >
Anyway, after you start to bowl and get into a few pressure shots there is
a tendency for the thumb to shrink. This is due to the body's chemical release
during stress.<br >
<br >
I have the same swelling problem with my thumb side to side (instead of front
to back). I have to open up the thumb holes so I can get my thumb in and
then use tape as my bowling continues. If you use several balls this can
be a problem. You probably will use one ball more often than the others.
So you have to be aware to have all the balls with the proper fit (with
tape added or removed as the season continues) so when you have to go to
another ball the fit is right. And, yes a lot of tape in the thumb hole
is a problem in the summer. I find that the tape has a tendency to move
around in the thumb hole more often in the summer than the winter and this
causes the glue on the back of the tape to come in contact with my thumb.<br >
<br >
Someone also mentioned a new product on the market that allows you to change
the thumb inserts (the main thumb insert is larger than a normal one and
allows for other inserts to be added). Since the system can be installed
in every ball you have you just have to remove the inner sleeve insert from
one ball and put it into the next ball you want to use (you don't have to
have a set of inserts for each ball since one set can be used in all the
balls). This system is intended to eliminate the use of tape (since you
can just change the size of the insert). I have not used this product but
if you thumb problem is as bad as you claim this might be what you are looking
for to solve your problem.<br >
<br >
Joe Z<br >
<br >
1966olds wrote:<br >
<blockquote type="cite"
cite="mid1119654021.367544.238350@g14g2000cwa.googlegroups.com" >
<pre wrap="" >Thank you everyone that replied. However, it looks as if I need to
explain a bit more.
It is not just stickiness. When I first arrive at the bowling center, I
literally cannot get my thumb into the ball at all. Not even past the
joint. Before anyone says that the hole needs to be opened up, I had
all of the thumbholes on my equipment made larger last summer. It was
plenty hot and humid and I had them all sized to the largest size my
thumb reached at the height of the summer weather conditions.
And during the winter....well actually by fall, as soon as the
temperature dropped into the 60's for daytime highs, I already had to
use some tape for sizing or at least use some "Grip Cream" to keep the
ball from sliding off my thumb. Now, its summer again, and while it was
in the 70's I was ok. Also wasn't bowling quite as many games. But
having bowled about 43 games in a 5 or 6 day span, and the temperatures
up in the 80's or better, the problem has returned. Not AS bad as last
year (when the thumb was too tight for the entire match), but still too
snug at first to be effective.
Am I doomed to keep enlarging my thumbholes every summer until
eventually I'll need 10 or more pieces of tape in the winter? I do
appreciate all the suggestions, yet really want to find a way to
minimize the swelling in between bowling dates, which would end the
vicious cycle of making the thumbholes bigger, then growing a larger
thumb, then making them bigger still.
I have heard about the salt intake before, and that seems like
something I can control long-term, but unless I can do something short
term to maybe jack up my salt levels briefly a couple hours before
bowling so that maybe they would drop by game time, not sure I can
manipulate the levels enough to achieve fast results.
I also remember hearing something about the potato solution. Does that
actually heal or shrink the thumb for some time afterward? Or would
someone have to keep the potato handy and store their thumb in it to
keep it from swelling back up later the same night? And... since its
the hot weather that's a contributing factor, wouldn't the potato spoil
in the car? Unless I keep one in my locker at the bowling center?
So, am looking for either some way to bring down the thumb size rapidly
for just the short term, or alternatively, do so slowly, but with long
term effect.
Hope that clarifies things some.
Larry
Darby wrote:
</pre >
<blockquote type="cite" >
<pre wrap="" >"twobirds" <
</pre >
<blockquote type="cite" >
<pre wrap="" >1966olds wrote:
</pre >
<blockquote type="cite" >
<pre wrap="" >Hi,
I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
ball for those practice throws.
Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
leagues too in the meantime.
</pre >
</blockquote >
<pre wrap="" >Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball is
holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your thumb
into the ball, even if it is tight.
So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball off
your thumb.
</pre >
</blockquote >
<pre wrap="" >I'd suggest you only put the powder on the back of your thumb, e ven a
slight amount can cause the ball to slip out too soon.
</pre >
<blockquote type="cite" >
<pre wrap="" >Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
difference, IMHO.
</pre >
</blockquote >
<pre wrap="" >Good thinking. Some of the resin can seep into the thumb hole. I use slugs,
so it didn't occur to me that it could be a sticky thumb hole. If the ball
is being stored in some place with a temperature difference from the center
where you are bowling the thumb hole could be sweating too. It has happened
to me at tournaments when I was too lazy to take my equipment up to the room
with me and I had an early morning shift. Dry it out well.
Dar
</pre >
<blockquote type="cite" >
<pre wrap="" >My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion is
a
good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for one.
One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad enough
that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that I
can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at least
I
can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
</pre >
</blockquote >
</blockquote >
<pre wrap="" ><!---->
</pre >
</blockquote >
<br >
</body >
</html >
--------------090303000304080807030409--
|
| | |
Date: 25 Jun 2005 16:03:26
From: Tony R Smith
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Shrinking and swelling is "normal"... even ten pieces of tape difference
is not unusual. When I used to live in Washington State I would have to
make my thumb holes large enough for summer and use 6-8 pieces of white
1" tape during the fall. Once I started bowling Nationals with Mark and
company on Team Internet I had to enlarge my thumb holes even more
because elevation will make you swell too. Now that I live in San Diego,
the only time I have to worry about sizing my thumb is when I am away
from home for tournaments. You really only have three options... 1)
Don't bowl in the summer, 2) Make the holes big enough to handle your
maximum swelling size and use tape (I suggest making them big enough to
"always" have a minimum of two pieces of tape for a consistent surface
feel), or 3) Have your balls fitted with a removable/interchangeable
thumb slug system as Jeff and Dar have suggested ( Not cheap, but if you
hate using tape then that is your best answer). All of the other
"tricks" mentioned only work if you thumb hole is "slightly" tight.
Temperature, elevation, humidity, diet (salt), etc., all effect
swelling... you cannot avoid it.
1966olds wrote:
>Thank you everyone that replied. However, it looks as if I need to
>explain a bit more.
>
>It is not just stickiness. When I first arrive at the bowling center, I
>literally cannot get my thumb into the ball at all. Not even past the
>joint. Before anyone says that the hole needs to be opened up, I had
>all of the thumbholes on my equipment made larger last summer. It was
>plenty hot and humid and I had them all sized to the largest size my
>thumb reached at the height of the summer weather conditions.
>
>And during the winter....well actually by fall, as soon as the
>temperature dropped into the 60's for daytime highs, I already had to
>use some tape for sizing or at least use some "Grip Cream" to keep the
>ball from sliding off my thumb. Now, its summer again, and while it was
>in the 70's I was ok. Also wasn't bowling quite as many games. But
>having bowled about 43 games in a 5 or 6 day span, and the temperatures
>up in the 80's or better, the problem has returned. Not AS bad as last
>year (when the thumb was too tight for the entire match), but still too
>snug at first to be effective.
>
>Am I doomed to keep enlarging my thumbholes every summer until
>eventually I'll need 10 or more pieces of tape in the winter? I do
>appreciate all the suggestions, yet really want to find a way to
>minimize the swelling in between bowling dates, which would end the
>vicious cycle of making the thumbholes bigger, then growing a larger
>thumb, then making them bigger still.
>
>I have heard about the salt intake before, and that seems like
>something I can control long-term, but unless I can do something short
>term to maybe jack up my salt levels briefly a couple hours before
>bowling so that maybe they would drop by game time, not sure I can
>manipulate the levels enough to achieve fast results.
>
>I also remember hearing something about the potato solution. Does that
>actually heal or shrink the thumb for some time afterward? Or would
>someone have to keep the potato handy and store their thumb in it to
>keep it from swelling back up later the same night? And... since its
>the hot weather that's a contributing factor, wouldn't the potato spoil
>in the car? Unless I keep one in my locker at the bowling center?
>
>So, am looking for either some way to bring down the thumb size rapidly
>for just the short term, or alternatively, do so slowly, but with long
>term effect.
>
>Hope that clarifies things some.
>
>Larry
>
>
>Darby wrote:
>
>
>>"twobirds" <
>>
>>
>>>1966olds wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>>Hi,
>>>>
>>>>I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
>>>>too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
>>>>after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
>>>>is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
>>>>ball for those practice throws.
>>>>
>>>>Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
>>>>summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
>>>>adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
>>>>bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
>>>>can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
>>>>size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
>>>>cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
>>>>will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
>>>>leagues too in the meantime.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
>>>reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball is
>>>holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your thumb
>>>into the ball, even if it is tight.
>>>
>>>So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
>>>powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball off
>>>your thumb.
>>>
>>>
>>I'd suggest you only put the powder on the back of your thumb, e ven a
>>slight amount can cause the ball to slip out too soon.
>>
>>
>>>Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
>>>difference, IMHO.
>>>
>>>
>>Good thinking. Some of the resin can seep into the thumb hole. I use slugs,
>>so it didn't occur to me that it could be a sticky thumb hole. If the ball
>>is being stored in some place with a temperature difference from the center
>>where you are bowling the thumb hole could be sweating too. It has happened
>>to me at tournaments when I was too lazy to take my equipment up to the room
>>with me and I had an early morning shift. Dry it out well.
>>Dar
>>
>>
>>
>>>My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
>>>often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion is
>>>a
>>>good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for one.
>>>One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad enough
>>>that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that I
>>>can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at least
>>>I
>>>can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>
>
>
|
| | | |
Date: 25 Jun 2005 13:36:00
From: Jeff Rife
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Tony R Smith (tonyrsmith@myrealbox.com) wrote in alt.sport.bowling:
> 3) Have your balls fitted with a removable/interchangeable
> thumb slug system as Jeff and Dar have suggested ( Not cheap, but if you
> hate using tape then that is your best answer).
For retro-fitting, this can get a bit expensive, but for a new ball, it's
not much more than a standard thumb slug. I paid $20 for the hardware that
goes in each ball. If you have 5-7 balls to go back and have done, then
the $20 plus drilling does add up. But, if you are drilling a new ball
anyway....
--
Jeff Rife
|
| | |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 23:11:16
From: Darby
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
"1966olds"
> Thank you everyone that replied. However, it looks as if I need to
> explain a bit more.
>
> It is not just stickiness. When I first arrive at the bowling center, I
> literally cannot get my thumb into the ball at all. Not even past the
> joint. Before anyone says that the hole needs to be opened up, I had
> all of the thumbholes on my equipment made larger last summer. It was
> plenty hot and humid and I had them all sized to the largest size my
> thumb reached at the height of the summer weather conditions.
>
> And during the winter....well actually by fall, as soon as the
> temperature dropped into the 60's for daytime highs, I already had to
> use some tape for sizing or at least use some "Grip Cream" to keep the
> ball from sliding off my thumb. Now, its summer again, and while it was
> in the 70's I was ok. Also wasn't bowling quite as many games. But
> having bowled about 43 games in a 5 or 6 day span, and the temperatures
> up in the 80's or better, the problem has returned. Not AS bad as last
> year (when the thumb was too tight for the entire match), but still too
> snug at first to be effective.
>
> Am I doomed to keep enlarging my thumbholes every summer until
> eventually I'll need 10 or more pieces of tape in the winter? I do
> appreciate all the suggestions, yet really want to find a way to
> minimize the swelling in between bowling dates, which would end the
> vicious cycle of making the thumbholes bigger, then growing a larger
> thumb, then making them bigger still.
>
> I have heard about the salt intake before, and that seems like
> something I can control long-term, but unless I can do something short
> term to maybe jack up my salt levels briefly a couple hours before
> bowling so that maybe they would drop by game time, not sure I can
> manipulate the levels enough to achieve fast results.
>
> I also remember hearing something about the potato solution. Does that
> actually heal or shrink the thumb for some time afterward? Or would
> someone have to keep the potato handy and store their thumb in it to
> keep it from swelling back up later the same night? And... since its
> the hot weather that's a contributing factor, wouldn't the potato spoil
> in the car? Unless I keep one in my locker at the bowling center?
>
> So, am looking for either some way to bring down the thumb size rapidly
> for just the short term, or alternatively, do so slowly, but with long
> term effect.
>
> Hope that clarifies things some.
There are interchangable slugs pehaps you and have one size for winter and
another for summer and just change them as needed? Go to a good pro shop.
However, my coach, who is a PBA member and has his own pro shop usually
has about a quarter of an inch of tape in the back of his thumb hole and
he's constantly changing tape as the games progress. He takes 8-10 balls to
tournaments and they're all like that. Often he changes pitch, etc. looking
for a cleaner release so he could have other methods to get the fit he
wants, but chooses tape addition and subtraction as needed.
The potato method is sworn to by some people, but I don't know any high
average bowlers who do it. Since you have the problem before you bowl I
doubt if it would help you much. I think it prevents swelling after you
start to bowl.
Dar
> Larry
>
>
> Darby wrote:
>> "twobirds" <
>> > 1966olds wrote:
>> >> Hi,
>> >>
>> >> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
>> >> too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
>> >> after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
>> >> is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
>> >> ball for those practice throws.
>> >>
>> >> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
>> >> summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
>> >> adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
>> >> bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
>> >> can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
>> >> size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
>> >> cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
>> >> will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
>> >> leagues too in the meantime.
>> >
>> > Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
>> > reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball
>> > is
>> > holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your
>> > thumb
>> > into the ball, even if it is tight.
>> >
>> > So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
>> > powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball
>> > off
>> > your thumb.
>>
>> I'd suggest you only put the powder on the back of your thumb, e ven a
>> slight amount can cause the ball to slip out too soon.
>> >
>> > Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
>> > difference, IMHO.
>>
>> Good thinking. Some of the resin can seep into the thumb hole. I use
>> slugs,
>> so it didn't occur to me that it could be a sticky thumb hole. If the
>> ball
>> is being stored in some place with a temperature difference from the
>> center
>> where you are bowling the thumb hole could be sweating too. It has
>> happened
>> to me at tournaments when I was too lazy to take my equipment up to the
>> room
>> with me and I had an early morning shift. Dry it out well.
>> Dar
>>
>> >
>> > My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
>> > often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion
>> > is
>> > a
>> > good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for
>> > one.
>> > One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad
>> > enough
>> > that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that
>> > I
>> > can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at
>> > least
>> > I
>> > can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
>> >
>> >
>> >
>
|
| | |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 21:26:27
From: twobirds
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
1966olds wrote:
> I have heard about the salt intake before, and that seems like
> something I can control long-term, but unless I can do something short
> term to maybe jack up my salt levels briefly a couple hours before
> bowling so that maybe they would drop by game time, not sure I can
> manipulate the levels enough to achieve fast results.
>
Salt makes you swell more. Intake of salt a couple of hours before will
most certainly make you swell more. Drinking more fluid is, oddly enough, a
better idea. I wouldn't know that but for something I was taught when
lifting weights competitively when I was younger. There is a long
explaination as to why, but it is partially due to the body getting rid of
more salt when you drink a lot of water. A diaretic (sp?) like caffeine
might be useful as well.
Another thing you might consider is an anti-inflammatory like Ibuprofin or
Aleve. An Aleve a couple of hours before you bowl might be beneficial...
and if your bones are aging like mine, it may have other benefits as well
<g > -
|
| | |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 21:02:33
From: Jeff Rife
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
1966olds (news.20.1988@spamgourmet.com) wrote in alt.sport.bowling:
> Am I doomed to keep enlarging my thumbholes every summer until
> eventually I'll need 10 or more pieces of tape in the winter? I do
> appreciate all the suggestions, yet really want to find a way to
> minimize the swelling in between bowling dates, which would end the
> vicious cycle of making the thumbholes bigger, then growing a larger
> thumb, then making them bigger still.
There are several devices that allow you to change the size of the thumbhole
on the fly without tape.
I use a product called "Tom's Thumb" that I had installed by Frankie May at
the Visionary booth in Baton Rouge. We saw somebody with another system,
but I can't recall who made it.
--
Jeff Rife
|
| |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 15:10:28
From: twobirds
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
1966olds wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
> too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
> after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
> is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
> ball for those practice throws.
>
> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
> summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
> adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
> bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
> can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
> size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
> cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
> will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
> leagues too in the meantime.
Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball is
holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your thumb
into the ball, even if it is tight.
So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball off
your thumb.
Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
difference, IMHO.
My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion is a
good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for one.
One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad enough
that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that I
can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at least I
can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
|
| | |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 17:06:32
From: Darby
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
"twobirds" <
> 1966olds wrote:
>> Hi,
>>
>> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be
>> too big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably
>> after some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem
>> is, its so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the
>> ball for those practice throws.
>>
>> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two
>> summers on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to
>> adjust the equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of
>> bowler's tape to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I
>> can do just before bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the
>> size of my thumb to some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice
>> cubes...?)? If I can just get through the next 6-8 weeks the problem
>> will go away till next year, but would like to enjoy my summer
>> leagues too in the meantime.
>
> Nobody suggested thumb slugs or simple old baby powder. Maybe I'm not
> reading enough into your statement, but it sounds to me like the ball is
> holding on to your thumb and not that you can't physically fit your thumb
> into the ball, even if it is tight.
>
> So, try this maybe: Coat your thumb with baby powder and then wipe the
> powder off with a towell. Enough will remain to ease getting the ball off
> your thumb.
I'd suggest you only put the powder on the back of your thumb, e ven a
slight amount can cause the ball to slip out too soon.
>
> Or, consider having a slug done. A nylon/plastic slug can make a big
> difference, IMHO.
Good thinking. Some of the resin can seep into the thumb hole. I use slugs,
so it didn't occur to me that it could be a sticky thumb hole. If the ball
is being stored in some place with a temperature difference from the center
where you are bowling the thumb hole could be sweating too. It has happened
to me at tournaments when I was too lazy to take my equipment up to the room
with me and I had an early morning shift. Dry it out well.
Dar
>
> My problem is the opposite. My thumb swells as I bowl (not always but
> often). There are days when it swells quite a lot. Mark's suggestion is
> a
> good one for me. I have the same size slug in every ball except for one.
> One ball has the thumb hole enlarged quite a bit. If I swell bad enough
> that I can't get out of my "standard" slug, I always have one ball that I
> can roll (it may not be my first choice for lane conditions, but at least
> I
> can get my thumb out of it and keep bowling)
>
>
>
|
| |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 11:08:40
From: Mark
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
1966olds wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
> those practice throws.
If you are fine after a few shots why not just enlarge the hole on one
ball slightly and use tape to adjust it smaller-larger as needed? If
you have ten balls you must have one where the thumb hole is slightly
larger than it should be after "adjustments" were made. That ball an
become your designated "summer thumb fitter" :)
Forget about potatos and crushing the thumb to make it fit. Squashing
soft tissue just leads to inflammation and edema which makes things
worse. If the holes are too tight you need to adjust them and then
modify with tape. There is a reason many of us carry an entire roll of
tape in our bags and it's not for teh added weight.
Mark
|
| |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 12:38:54
From: Jake's Marketplace, Inc.
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Silk Handkerchief,
Place it flat over the hole and slowly press the thumb into the hole, part
way. Pull out the thumb and repeat slightly lowering the thumb with each
insertion.
As for alternative times - watch your salt intake!
Michael
"1966olds" <news.20.1988@spamgourmet.com > wrote in message
news:1119612314.263026.184620@g49g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
> Hi,
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
> those practice throws.
>
> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
> on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
> equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
> to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
> bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
> some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
> through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
> would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
>
> Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
> Larry
>
|
| |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 16:02:09
From: Ryan Press \(NI\)
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
I simply press in on the sides of my thumb before each shot.... fits fine
after that...
Ryan
"1966olds" <news.20.1988@spamgourmet.com > wrote in message
news:1119612314.263026.184620@g49g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
> Hi,
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
> those practice throws.
>
> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
> on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
> equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
> to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
> bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
> some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
> through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
> would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
>
> Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
> Larry
>
|
| |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 09:18:30
From: Darby
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
I've found you can wrap the towel you wipe the ball off with around your
thumb between frames. Not too tight so that it interferes with circulation,
just snug. Holding the hand upright between frames instead of letting the
arm hang at your side helps too. There are many that swear by putting your
thumb in a carved out potato, but I've never tried it.
Dar
"1966olds" <
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
> those practice throws.
>
> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
> on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
> equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
> to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
> bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
> some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
> through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
> would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
>
> Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
> Larry
>
|
| | |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 12:25:08
From: Polarhound
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
Darby wrote:
> I've found you can wrap the towel you wipe the ball off with around your
> thumb between frames. Not too tight so that it interferes with circulation,
> just snug. Holding the hand upright between frames instead of letting the
> arm hang at your side helps too. There are many that swear by putting your
> thumb in a carved out potato, but I've never tried it.
A Thumbsicle?
|
| |
Date: 24 Jun 2005 08:11:51
From: DRA
Subject: Re: Suggestions to shrink thumb in summer?
|
I am a big guy and have the same problem. My solution is to have a small
square of women's hose. Pull tight over the thumb, then just push the thumb
only in the ball. Wait a minute or two, and it will fit perfectly. This
method pushes the fluids from the thumb.
Don
"1966olds" <news.20.1988@spamgourmet.com > wrote in message
news:1119612314.263026.184620@g49g2000cwa.googlegroups.com...
> Hi,
>
> I bowl year-round (Chicago, Illinois area) and my thumb tends to be too
> big for the thumbhole at the very start, but shrinks considerably after
> some practice shots (or about 3 frames if no practice). Problem is, its
> so tight to begin with it is actually painful to deliver the ball for
> those practice throws.
>
> Already had the thumbholes opened up somewhat over the last two summers
> on all 10 or so of my bowling balls, and do not want to adjust the
> equipment anymore (when summer ends, have to use a lot of bowler's tape
> to keep the thumb comfortable). Is there something I can do just before
> bowling or even on non-bowling days, to reduce the size of my thumb to
> some degree (exercises, hand lotion, ice cubes...?)? If I can just get
> through the next 6-8 weeks the problem will go away till next year, but
> would like to enjoy my summer leagues too in the meantime.
>
> Thanks for any ideas/suggestions,
> Larry
>
|
|
