Ulnar Collateral Ligament

What is Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury?

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a critical stabilizing ligament on the inner side of the elbow. It is commonly injured through repetitive stress, especially in overhead athletes such as baseball pitchers, tennis players, and javelin throwers. A UCL injury may range from mild stretching to a complete tear and can significantly impact arm function and performance.

Symptoms of UCL Injury

• Pain on the inside of the elbow during or after activity
• Reduced throwing velocity or performance
• Weakness or instability in the elbow joint
• Numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers
• A "pop" or sudden sharp pain with injury in more severe cases

Hecker Sports Medicine’s Approach

At Hecker Sports Medicine™, we focus on personalized, non-surgical care. Dr. Hecker begins with a detailed evaluation to identify the root cause of your pain. Whether it is related to poor mechanics, posture, or muscle imbalance, our goal is to help you heal without invasive procedures.

We develop custom treatment plans that are designed around your lifestyle and activity level. Our team works with you to reduce pain, restore strength, and prevent recurrence, all while helping you remain as active as possible.

Traditional Non-Surgical Treatment Options

• Rest and temporary cessation of throwing or overhead activity
• Ice and inflammation control
• Bracing or taping to support elbow stability
• Physical therapy focused on forearm, shoulder, and scapular strength
• Throwing mechanics assessment and retraining

Advanced Treatments for UCL Injuries

For patients who do not improve with standard care, we offer advanced therapies that support faster and deeper healing:

• PRP+ injections promote healing and reduce pain with the body’s natural resources
• Shockwave therapy to remodel connective tissue and prevent/eliminate local scar tissue
• Optical therapeutic laser to promote pain relief and tissue regeneration via cell stimulation
• Electrical stimulation therapy to improve local strengthening and address any local nerve pain secondary to the injury

These therapies are safe and non-invasive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What causes UCL?

UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament) injuries are typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse, especially from throwing motions in sports like baseball, or by sudden trauma such as a fall or impact that forces the elbow into extreme motion.

How long does it take to recover?

mild strains may heal with rest and therapy in 6–8 weeks, while severe tears may require months to recover.

Can I keep exercising during treatment?

In most cases, yes. We will guide you on modifying your workouts to avoid aggravating the tendon while still staying active.

How is Hecker Sports Medicine different?

Our clinic prioritizes non-surgical solutions and hands-on care. We use advanced therapies and personalized rehab to help you heal faster and avoid surgery.