Collateral ligaments are located on the inner and outer portion of each elbow. The particular ligament that exists on the inside pf the elbow is referred to as the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). The UCL extends from the inner side of the upper arm bone (humerus) to the inner area of the ulna (two sizable bones that exist in each forearm) located near the joint.
Causes of UCL Injuries
Patients who experience a ruptured or torn UCL are often involved in some type of traumatic incident. Still, this type of injury can also exist as a result of stress that gradually develops over time due to repetitive actions or behaviors. Because of these considerations, UCL injuries are frequently treated among athletes who compete in baseball, track and field events, volleyball, tennis, and racquetball.
Treatment
In many instances, non-invasive treatment solutions like rest, ice therapy, anti-inflammatories, and low-impact exercises help relieve pain and support a natural recovery. If these techniques do not restore stability to the elbow or help improve performance, you may need to discuss the possibility of surgical intervention with your chiropractor.
Tommy John Surgery
Patients who suffer from an unstable or torn UCL and do not improve from non-invasive solutions may be considered for Tommy John Surgery or UCL reconstruction. To repair the UCL using surgical techniques and restore strength to the injured elbow, doctors need to replace the damaged ligament with a tissue graft, which provides a base for that allows new tissue to generate. Most patients are able to use tissue from one of their own tendons to support the reconstruction process.
