An ulnar collateral ligament tear is a rupture of the main stabilizing ligament of the elbow which is located on the inner (medial) elbow.
Symptoms
- Pain on inner side of elbow
- Hearing or feeling a “pop” in the elbow
- Decreased strength and control of elbow
- Swelling
- Numbness, tingling, or a “burning” feeling in the pinky and ring fingers or along the pinky side of the forearm
Cause
- Gradual and progressive weakening of the ligament
- Direct blow to the area on the inside of the elbow causing injury to the ligament directly
- A single trauma to the arm such as falling on an outstretched hand with the elbow straight
- A trauma causing an extreme angulation of the forearm bones (specifically the ulna bone) in relation to the humerus bone of the upper arm.
Risk factors
- One arm dominant sports, activities, or occupations
- Repetitive overhead throwing
- High impact sports where there is a high chance of a fall
Prevention
- Try to minimize repetitive overhead throwing/ stick strongly to recommended pitch counts
- Switch hands/arms if possible
- Be careful of falling on an outstretched hand
Diagnosis
- Physician evaluation including varus stress test to test the integrity of the ulnar collateral ligament
- X-rays to rule out fracture
- MRI to determine grade of severity
Treatment
- Non-surgical:
- Rest
- Ice
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine
- Brace or splint
- Physical therapy for 3-4 months
- Surgical:
- When the ligament is completely torn surgery is usually encouraged
- “Tommy John Surgery” is an autograft procedure where a graft is put into the elbow and is usually taken from a donor.
