DALLAS - Two weeks after surgery on his left (riding) hand, J.B. Mauney had the stitches removed in another step toward returning to competition.

Now it's just a question of when.

After being immobilized in a soft cast for the past 13 days, the hand remains tight and sore, with limited mobility. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Hugh Frederick had Mauney fitted for two different brace-like casts - a smaller version for everyday activities, and a larger, stronger version for feeding cattle, flanking bulls, and even riding bulls … with his right hand.

Even prior to breaking his left ring finger in Kansas City, Mo., on March 31, J.B. Mauney was dealing with troublesome thumb issues on both hands.

Mauney is expected to try riding with his off-hand once he returns home to Mooresville, N.C.

In the meantime, he has been given a rehabilitation routine that includes physical therapy exercises.

Dr. Frederick has released the 25-year-old, seven-year pro to the care of Dr. Tandy Freeman, who will consult with Mauney about a return to competition.

A freeze-frame image of the moment Ragin' JT steps on J.B. Mauney's left hand in Kansas City, Mo., derailing a promising first half of the 2012 season.

Even if he were to switch riding hands, he is not expected to compete at the Built Ford Tough Series event this week in Des Moines, Iowa, but could return as soon as Uncasville, Conn., the following weekend. If he elects not to switch hands, no return date has been mentioned.

Mauney underwent an open reduction and internal fixation with a plate and six screws on the ring finger metacarpal on Tuesday, April 3. The surgical scar is on the top of his hand closer to his wrist than the base of his fingers.

Mauney was the No. 1 rider in the world going into last weekend. However, after recording a Top 5 finish in the average, Valdiron de Oliveira left Indianapolis with a 437.25-point lead in the standings.

Marco Eguche, L.J. Jenkins and Silvano Alves are all within 1,000 points of Mauney in second place.

Further updates on Mauney's recovery and return will be published when more information becomes available.