Oct 2, 2024 · An ulnar collateral ligament injury is any strain or tear of the connective tissue on the pinky finger side of your elbow. These injuries can affect the way you're able to move your arm.

UCL injuries are diagnosed by physical examination and a valgus stress test to assess instability of the elbow. An MRI scan or may also be taken. Treatment for UCL injuries ranges from rest and physical therapy to surgery, depending on the extent of the UCL tear and your health goals.

Apr 10, 2022 · An ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury is an inner elbow injury. It’s most commonly an overuse injury and most famously known for being a baseball pitcher’s injury. If you have a UCL injury you will feel pain and tenderness at your elbow.

Feb 20, 2025 · Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries are characterized by attenuation or rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow leading to valgus instability in overhead throwing athletes. Diagnosis is usually made by a combination of physical exam and MRI studies.

To diagnose a UCL injury, an orthopaedic specialist will examine your elbow, evaluate your symptoms and take a full medical history. Advanced imaging tests and tools will be ordered to assess if the UCL is torn and the extent of the damage.

Mar 26, 2025 · An internal elbow injury is caused by damage to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). Most unusually, it is referred to as a baseball player’s injury and is most commonly an overuse injury. The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) , which connects the ulna (one of the forearm bones) to the humerus (upper arm bone), is a crucial stabilizing ligament ...

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries are most common in baseball and softball players. Learn the different types and treatment options for UCL injuries.

Sep 18, 2018 · To help prevent UCL injuries, researchers in Mayo Clinic's Motion Analysis and Orthopedic Biomechanics laboratories are working to identify risk factors — including determining the maximal workloads and optimal throwing mechanics for younger players.

An injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow most often occurs in overhead throwing athletes due to high repetitive stresses leading to an overuse injury. The incidence of injury to the ulnar collateral ligament is rising in the U.S., particularly among amateur athletes.

Acute or chronic disruption of the ulnar collateral ligament result in medial elbow pain, valgus instability, and impaired throwing performance. There are both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. [1] Ligaments of the left elbow. Red arrows mark the location of the UCL.