Elbow Ligament Injuries Specialist

What are ligaments? 

Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that hold bones together.  Three ligaments in your elbow connect the upper and lower arm bones:

• Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), also known as the medial collateral ligament
• The lateral collateral ligament, also known as the radial collateral ligament
• Annular ligament

Ligament injuries typically result from trauma, dislocation, or chronic overuse from sports or work.

What are the types of elbow ligament injuries?

Most ligament injuries involve overstretching and tearing to varying degrees. Sprains are the most common condition and indicate you have pulled or torn one or more ligaments. This injury is associated with certain high-impact sports (football, wrestling, gymnastics) or instinctive attempts to break a fall. 

What are the symptoms of a torn elbow ligament?

Elbow ligament injuries cause pain or tenderness when pressure is applied and when bending or straightening the joint. Torn ligaments can lead to instability of the elbow joint.

How are ligament injuries diagnosed?

Our board-certified, fellowship-trained doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and may use imaging to rule out other conditions.

What are the best treatments for injured ligaments?

Resting the affected elbow, applying ice packs, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers help relieve symptoms for many. Physical therapy and bracing are also helpful. Some severe cases may require surgery. Orthopedic Specialists is one of the few area practices to offer ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction, or Tommy John surgery.

If you have developed severe elbow pain or felt a “pop” from trauma or repetitive motion, contact Orthopedic Specialists. Our doctor will perform a thorough examination and recommend the best intervention, whether surgical or non-surgical. We are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of all elbow conditions.