Massage therapy · Kitchener–WaterlooUlnar Collateral Ligament Tear
Knee
What It Is
Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears happen when the ligament on the inside of the elbow is torn. The UCL helps keep the ulna and humerus in their normal relationship. It is most often injured in overhead throwing sports, but also in gymnastics, volleyball and some track and field events, and it can be damaged in an elbow dislocation or during elbow surgery (AAOS, n.d.). Most tears develop slowly from repeated throwing that wears the ligament down; some happen suddenly, with a "pop" and immediate pain (AAOS, n.d.). The ligament is rarely stressed by normal daily activities, as the elbow is very stable for most of these (AAOS, n.d.). Its job is to resist the forces that open up the inside of the elbow, such as during throwing (AAOS, n.d.). When the ligament is torn, it does not always heal on its own (AAOS, n.d.).
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tear Anatomy
The ulnar collateral ligament (sometimes called the medial collateral ligament) joins the humerus (upper arm bone) to the ulna, one of the two forearm bones, the other being the radius. It is made up of three connected bands (AAOS, n.d.). The joint between these bones is the elbow. The ligaments on each side of the elbow (ulnar collateral on the inside and radial collateral on the outside) support the sides of the elbow and help keep it stable.
Not a diagnosis — for more information, contact me or another trusted healthcare provider.
Treatment
Self-Care & Treatment
How to Treat an Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tear
Treatments you may want to discuss with your family doctor or nurse practitioner
Tips
- Ask your doctor or me before using an elbow support or brace when returning to sport. I can help you work out whether one would help and how to get it.
- Rehabilitation will help you improve strength in your forearm and core and work on proper throwing mechanics before you return to throwing (AAOS, n.d.). Good throwing mechanics, forearm strength, hip and shoulder flexibility and core strength help protect the elbow (AAOS, n.d.). I can guide you through this rehabilitation once your doctor is happy.
Treatment
My Approach
A torn ulnar collateral ligament doesn't always heal on its own, so your doctor leads the plan: how long you stop throwing, whether you need surgery, and when you can return to sport. I work alongside that plan, and if you've had surgery I need your surgeon's okay before any hands-on treatment.
I start by assessing your elbow, shoulder, wrist and grip, and asking about your sport and throwing. I also check sensation and strength in your hand, as the ulnar nerve runs close by.
While the Elbow Rests
- Easing the forearm, shoulder and neck muscles that work overtime, staying gentle around the inside of the elbow
- Gentle lymphatic drainage for swelling, and I'll show you how to use ice safely at home
- Keeping your shoulder, wrist and hand moving, and keeping you fit without throwing
As You Recover
What to Expect
Typical Course
What I Focus On
Please read
When to See a Doctor First
When to Get Help
- Call 911 or go to the emergency room at your nearest hospital if you heard a crack when you were injured, the arm has changed shape or is pointing at an odd angle, it is numb, tingling or has pins and needles, or the skin around the injury has turned blue or grey or feels cold – you may have broken a bone (NHS, 2024).
- Discuss any symptoms with a medical professional early, even if mild, as early action may prevent a more significant injury (AAOS, n.d.).
Sources
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (n.d.) Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury. OrthoInfo. Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/ulnar-collateral-ligament-ucl-injury/ (Accessed: 7 October 2026).
- NHS (2024) Sprains and strains. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sprains-and-strains/ (Accessed: 7 October 2026).