Condition guide
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury - Overview
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.
Explore related physiotherapy services
Learn about assessment, rehabilitation and consultation preparation in these treatment guides.