Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

Torn Elbow Ligament

If you are feeling numbness or tingling in your hand and/or elbow stiffness, you may have suffered atear in the ulnar collateral ligament in your elbow.

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tears

Ligaments are bands of tissue connecting bones to each other at joints. A tear in the ulnar collateral ligament is an injury to this ligament in the elbow. The ulnar collateral ligament attaches the humerus to the ulna, supporting and stabilizing your arm. Injury to the ligament can be caused due to stretching or getting partially or completely torn.

The UCL tear is usually accompanied by a “pop” sound. You wouldn’t be able to continue activity once the UCL tears. Other signs of a UCL tear include:

If your job or sport involves repeated throwing motions, it may stretch and cause the fibers in the ligament to fray. With time, small microtears may develop and cause the ligament to tear.

Other common causes of UCL tears include –

UCL Tear Treatments

Treatment for UCL tears depends on the severity of the injury. Treatment options for minor tears include –

If conservative treatments don’t relieve the pain, Tommy John surgery may be performed. The procedure involves replacing the ligament with a tendon from another place in the body, like the hamstring or the forearm. Physical therapy is needed after Tommy John surgery for proper rehabilitation to improve range of motion and strengthen your elbow.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Benefits of Custom Orthopedic Bracing

Benefits of Custom Orthopedic Bracing

Various injuries and chronic conditions benefit from orthopedic bracing, from preserving joints through recovery to enhancing comfort as you go about your daily routine. Our specialty team discusses why custom bracing often offers the best solutions.

Degenerative Rotator Cuff Tears: What You Need to Know

Degenerative rotator cuff tears can cause significant pain and limit shoulder function, but you don’t have to live with the discomfort. There may be steps you can take to reduce the risk of this often age-related problem.

I Was Injured at Work: What Are My Next Steps?

Depending on its severity, any injury can cause significant pain and disability as you undergo diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Work injuries can add extra layers of stress due to the steps you must take during the process. We can help.
4 Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy

4 Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy offers a minimally invasive solution for knee pain that can get you back on your feet faster than you might think. Learn more from our specialty team about what to expect after knee arthroscopy and who benefits
Why Is PRP Popular Among Athletes?

Why Is PRP Popular Among Athletes?

The demand for effective, natural treatments that can heal injuries and boost performance continues to evolve for athletes at all levels. PRP therapy promises to do just that. Dive into how PRP works and its pro-athlete benefits.
What Are Bone Growth Stimulators?

What Are Bone Growth Stimulators?

It may seem a bit like sci-fi, but bone growth stimulators use waves of energy to enhance the healing process that bone tissue undergoes after a fracture. Read more about this painless, innovative therapy and its benefits.