A Word from Dr. Adesina
Ulnar collateral ligament injuries
Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears are increasingly common in athletes involved in overhead sports like baseball, gymnastics, and tennis. The UCL, located on the inner side of the elbow, stabilizes the joint during throwing motions. Repetitive stress, especially from high-velocity pitching, can lead to microtears, partial tears, or complete ruptures.
Symptoms of a UCL tear include medial elbow pain, decreased throwing velocity, and instability in the elbow. Athletes may also experience a “popping” sensation at the time of injury. Diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, valgus stress testing, and advanced imaging techniques such as MRI.
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Partial tears often can respond to conservative management, including rest, physical therapy, and activity modification. In severe cases, particularly for young athletes aiming to return to high-level competition, surgical intervention such as UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) may be required.
Preventative measures, including pitch count limits and proper throwing mechanics, are crucial in reducing injury risk. Most athletes recover fully and can return to sports. However, long-term follow-up is essential to monitor for complications like elbow instability or chronic pain.
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