The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a ligament that runs on the inner side of the elbow to help support it when performing certain motions, such as throwing. When this ligament is torn or damaged, it can lead to pain, elbow instability and loss of function.
A UCL tear occurs with overuse and wear and tear on the ligaments in the elbow and is most commonly associated with baseball pitchers and other athletes who perform frequent overarm movement. UCL injuries can range from complete tears to less severe damage such as inflammation. UCL tears can also be caused by a traumatic blow to the elbow, but most cases are the result of overuse from repetitive motions.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have a UCL injury:
- Clumsiness and weakness of hand grip
- Elbow pain and stiffness
- Loss of function in the elbow and arm
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers and hand
- Swelling and bruising
Meet the team of experts who specialize in ulnar collateral ligament treatment
Diagnosing Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Elbow
To diagnose a UCL injury, an orthopaedic specialist will examine your elbow, evaluate your symptoms and take a full medical history. Advanced imaging tests and tools will be ordered to assess if the UCL is torn and the extent of the damage. Our musculoskeletal radiologists specialize in reading scans from highly advanced imaging technology to ensure an accurate diagnosis. These diagnostic tools allow our specialists to develop optimal treatment plans that offer the best possible outcomes for UCL injuries.
We offer the following advanced imaging tests and tools to diagnose UCL injuries:
- CT scan
- MRI
- Musculoskeletal ultrasound
- X-ray
Nonsurgical Treatment for Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Elbow
We emphasize a conservative approach to treating UCL injuries through nonsurgical techniques. Many individuals find relief from pain and discomfort using noninvasive therapies.
Nonsurgical treatment for UCL injuries include:
- Activity modification/immobilization
- Icing or applying heat to the elbow
- Pain or anti-inflammatory medication
- Strengthening exercises/physical therapy
When nonsurgical approaches alone do not work, Penn orthopaedists may recommend surgery for UCL tears and injuries. Each patient's treatment plan is based on their individual needs and goals for therapy.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Elbow Injury Surgery
When noninvasive approaches do not alleviate symptoms, your orthopaedic surgeon will recommend surgery for your UCL tear. Penn orthopaedic surgeons are experts in ligament and tendon reconstruction and transfer to help restore function, strengthen the elbow and alleviate pain from UCL tears. You may be a candidate for UCL reconstruction if your ligament tear is severe. You and your orthopaedic surgeon will determine if UCL surgery is the right option for you.
UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery)
UCL reconstruction, also called Tommy John surgery, was first performed on Major League baseball pitcher Tommy John in 1974. The surgery has come a long way since then. We perform UCL reconstruction using the latest advanced techniques to relieve your pain, stabilize the elbow and restore mobility and function. The surgeon transplants tendons (called a graft) from other areas of the body or from a donor, rebuilding the UCL using microsurgical techniques.
UCL Surgery Recovery
The length of recovery from UCL reconstruction surgery varies depending on how fast tissues heal. After surgery, rest is very important to healing. When your doctor thinks you are ready, you will begin a customized physical therapy and pain management program designed to regain strength, range of motion and function and to alleviate pain. Our goal is to greatly reduce or eliminate your pain after surgery. Patients who experience less pain during recovery tend to have better results. We offer an effective advanced pain management program that lessens dependence on narcotics and helps improve your function and mobility. Athletes planning to return to sports may need a longer rehabilitation program. They will likely need to continue rehabilitation even after their return in order to maintain ligament strength.
Personalized Rehabilitation Program for UCL Injuries
Penn physical therapists, orthopaedic specialists and pain management specialists work together to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan that restores your elbow's maximum function. Whether you are an athlete wanting to return to sports or an individual looking to get back to your normal daily activities, we work closely with you to address your unique needs and personal recovery goals, reinforcing the concept that movement is key to increase function and mobility.