Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury
An injury to the ligament on the inside of the elbow, commonly seen in throwing athletes.
Symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Swelling and tenderness
- Instability or looseness in the elbow
- Decreased throwing speed or accuracy
- Difficulty gripping objects
Causes & Risk Factors
- Overhead throwing sports (e.g., baseball, javelin)
- Repetitive valgus stress on the elbow
- Inadequate warm-up or technique
- Previous elbow injuries
- Poor shoulder or core strength
Diagnosis
- Valgus stress test by clinician
- MRI or MR arthrogram for detailed imaging
- Ultrasound for dynamic assessment
- X-ray to rule out associated issues
Effective Treatment Options
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
- Bracing to support the elbow
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in some cases
- UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) for severe cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tommy John surgery?
It’s a surgical reconstruction of the UCL using a tendon graft, common in throwing athletes.
Can a UCL injury heal without surgery?
Partial tears often improve with conservative care, including rest and physiotherapy.
