Elbow Ligament Injuries

The elbow relies on strong bands of tissue—most notably the Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) and Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)—to keep the joint stable. An injury occurs when these ligaments stretch, partially tear, or rupture completely.

Symptoms

• Sharp pain or soreness along the inner or outer elbow
• A sensation of joint instability, popping, or "giving way"
• Swelling, stiffness, and reduced throwing velocity or grip strength

Causes

Ligament damage typically stems from acute trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand, elbow dislocation, or chronic repetitive stress.

Risk Factors

• Participation in overhead throwing sports (baseball, javelin) or contact athletics
• Occupations requiring repetitive heavy lifting and arm rotation
• Previous elbow sprains or joint laxity

Diagnosis

Our specialists perform focused physical examinations, stress tests to evaluate joint laxity, and high-resolution imaging (X-rays and MRI) to assess ligament integrity.

Treatment

Care plans range from conservative therapies—rest, bracing, physical therapy, and targeted injections—to advanced minimally invasive ligament repair or reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) for severe tears.