# UCL Tear

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/ucl-tear/
- Published: 2019-01-18T20:56:18-05:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

# UCL Tears

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### UCL Tear Overview

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) stabilizes the inside part of the elbow joint.
A partial or complete UCL tear is a serious injury that will not heal on its own.
A Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) elbow specialist should
see the injury as soon as possible.

## **Symptoms & Causes**

UCL tear symptoms include:

 * Elbow joint instability
 * Numbness and tingling in the small and ring fingers
 * Pain

_Throwing sports _are the main UCL tear cause.

## **Common Treatments:**

Nonsurgical treatment options treat some partial tears. After a thorough evaluation,
a CONA elbow specialist may recommend:

 * Activity modification
 * Immobilization in a cast, splint or sling
 * Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
 * Physical therapy
 * Rest and ice

Surgery may be recommended to treat complete tears. A CONA elbow specialist performs
a UCL repair (Tommy John Surgery) to repair the torn ligament and stabilize the 
elbow.

## **Diagnosis:**

A CONA specialist listens carefully as the patient describes how their injury occurred
and what symptoms have presented. A physical examination tests elbow strength and
stability. An MRI shows the UCL and other elbow soft tissues.