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The elbow joint is essential for your mobility and function. It helps you lift, grip, and throw. Despite its stability, the elbow is vulnerable to stress-related injuries, particularly in athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions. One of the most common injuries among throwing athletes is a UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) tear, often requiring Tommy John Surgery. Understanding UCL injuries and following a structured physical rehabilitation program can help you recover and safely return to activity. Learn more about UCL injuries and their symptoms, causes, and treatment options at Resilient Performance Physical Therapy.
What is a UCL Injury?
A UCL injury occurs when the ulnar collateral ligament, a stabilizer on the inside of the elbow, becomes stretched, frayed, or torn due to repetitive stress. A UCL injury affects the soft tissue that connects the upper arm bone to the forearm and can sometimes irritate the nearby ulnar nerve, leading to pain or numbness in the arm and hand. This ligament maintains elbow stability, especially during overhead throwing motions. UCL injuries are common in athletes who place repeated stress on their elbow, such as baseball pitchers, javelin throwers, and tennis players. When the ligament is significantly torn, Tommy John Surgery may be recommended to reconstruct the ligament and restore your full function.
Types of UCL Injuries
Partial UCL Tear
A partial tear occurs when the UCL is damaged but not completely torn. Athletes with partially torn ligaments may experience elbow pain and instability but can avoid surgery with proper rest and rehabilitation. However, partial tears may also require full reconstruction or a repair to return to normal activities.
Complete UCL Tear
A complete tear means the ligament has ruptured, often causing severe pain and inability to throw or perform overhead activities. In many cases, Tommy John Surgery is required to repair and/or replace the damaged ligament.
What Does a UCL Injury Mean?
A UCL injury occurs when the ligament supporting the inner elbow is damaged due to repetitive stress or acute trauma. This injury can compromise elbow stability and limit athletic performance without proper treatment.
UCL Injury Symptoms
- Pain on the inner side of the elbow
- Loss of throwing velocity or accuracy
- A “popping” sensation during throwing
- Elbow stiffness and swelling
- Weakness or instability in the elbow joint
- Numbness or tingling in the forearm or fingers
UCL Injury Causes
UCL injuries are primarily caused by repetitive overhead motions that place extreme stress on the inner elbow. Common causes include:
- Repetitive overhand throwing
- Improper form when throwing
- Inadequate warm-up or stretching
- Sudden forceful movements that strain the ligament
- Overuse without proper rest and recovery
UCL Injury Diagnosis
If you are experiencing persistent inner elbow pain or throwing difficulties, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation. A physician or physical therapist will perform a physical examination to assess elbow stability and may recommend diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, to confirm ligament damage. Early diagnosis ensures a more effective and personalized treatment plan.
UCL Injury Treatment
Treatment for a UCL injury focuses on relieving pain, restoring elbow stability, and improving overall performance. Rest and physical therapy may allow for healing without surgery in minor or partial tears. For complete tears, Tommy John Surgery with ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction or the newer hybrid procedure may be necessary. After surgery for the UCL, physical therapy is crucial for optimal recovery and performance.
Why Choose Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a vital role in both nonsurgical treatment and post-surgical recovery from ulnar collateral ligament injuries. With professional baseball experience including work with players from over half of MLB’s organizations, Resilient Performance Physical Therapy specializes in the treatment and prevention of UCL injuries. We’ve rehabbed athletes from the nation’s top surgeons and collaborate with them to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Contact Us
If an ulnar collateral ligament UCL injury or Tommy John Surgery affects your ability to perform, contact Resilient Performance Physical Therapy today by completing our online contact form to schedule an appointment in NY, NJ, or CT.
