The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is located on the medial side of the elbow and connects the inside of the upper arm to the inside of the forearm. A UCL tear is an injury to one of the ligaments on the inner side of the elbow. UCL injuries can occur during certain activities such as overhead baseball pitching, and can result in medial elbow pain, valgus instability, and impaired throwing. The following are common symptoms of a UCL injury:
- A sudden "pop" or pain along the inside of the elbow, leading to the inability to continue throwing.
- Pain on the inside of the elbow after a period of heavy throwing.
- Swelling and bruising of the elbow.
- Loss of elbow range of motion.
- A sudden decrease in throwing velocity.
- Stiffness.
- A pop or pain at the inner elbow.
- Numb feeling or tingling in the 4th and 5th finger.
- Pain during and after throwing or other activities.
UCL tears can be diagnosed through a history and physical examination, and a valgus stress test is the best way to assess the condition of the UCL. An MRI scan and X-ray may also be used to see the changes in the ulnar collateral ligament related to stress. Treatment options for UCL tears depend on the severity of the injury and may include rest, physical therapy, or surgery.
