Elbow Ligament Injury: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery post thumbnail image

Elbow Ligament Injury

Elbow ligament injury treatment at Arunalaya
Book Appointment

What is Elbow Ligament Injury ?

An elbow ligament injury involves damage to the strong, fibrous tissues that connect the bones in your elbow joint, providing stability. The three main ligaments in the elbow are the:

Types of Elbow Ligament Injury
  • Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL), also known as the Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL): Located on the inside of the elbow, this is the most commonly injured ligament, especially in overhead throwing athletes (e.g., baseball pitchers).
  • Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) complex: Located on the outside of the elbow.
  • Annular Ligament: Encircles the head of the radius, stabilizing it.
Causes of Elbow Ligament Injuries
  • Overuse/Repetitive Stress: This is a very common cause, particularly for UCL injuries. Repeated overhead movements (e.g., throwing, tennis, volleyball) can cause the ligament to stretch, irritate, and eventually tear over time.
  • Trauma: A sudden blow to the elbow or a fall on an outstretched arm can lead to a ligament injury, sometimes accompanied by an elbow dislocation or fracture.
  • Forced Twisting of the Arm: Can also damage elbow ligaments.
Grades of Ligament Sprains:

Ligament injuries are typically graded based on severity:

  • Grade 1 (Mild): The ligament is stretched but not torn. There may be some soreness and swelling.
  • Grade 2 (Moderate): The ligament is stretched and partially torn. This can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and some instability. You may not be able to use your elbow fully.
  • Grade 3 (Severe): The ligament is completely torn. This usually results in significant pain, swelling, bruising, and a feeling of instability or “giving way” in the elbow. You will likely be unable to use your elbow at all.
Symptoms of Elbow Ligament Injuries

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury and whether it’s acute (sudden) or developed over time. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain and tenderness: Often on the inside of the elbow (for UCL injuries) or outside (for LCL injuries). Pain may worsen with movement, especially straightening the arm or performing overhead activities.
  • Sudden “pop” or tearing sensation: Especially with acute injuries.
  • Swelling and possible bruising: Around the elbow joint.
  • Reduced range of motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the elbow.
  • Weakness or instability: A feeling that the elbow is “loose” or “giving way.”
  • Weak or clumsy hand grip.
  • Numbness or tingling: In the pinky and ring fingers (especially with UCL injuries, due to proximity to the ulnar nerve).
Treatment for Elbow Ligament Injuries

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity level.

Non-Surgical Treatment (for mild to moderate injuries)

  • RICE method:
    • Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
    • Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day, to reduce pain and swelling.
    • Compression: Use an elastic bandage to help with swelling.
    • Elevation: Keep the elbow elevated above the heart.
  • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) can help manage pain and inflammation.
  • Immobilization: A sling, splint, or cast may be used for a few weeks to allow the ligament to heal.
  • Physical therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling subside, a physical therapist will guide you through exercises to:
    • Restore range of motion.
    • Strengthen the muscles around the elbow to provide support and compensate for the injured ligament.
    • Improve flexibility and stability.
    • Injections:
    • Corticosteroid injections: Can reduce inflammation and pain.
    • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: May promote healing in some cases.
Recovery Time

Recovery time varies significantly based on the injury’s severity and the chosen treatment

  • Grade 1 sprains: May recover within a few weeks with rest and conservative care.
  • Grade 2 sprains: Can take approximately 2 months for conservative recovery.
  • Grade 3 tears (non-surgical): May take 3 to 6 months to fully recover, depending on the activities the person wishes to return to.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Working Hours

Mon - Sat: 9:00AM to 8:30PM
Sunday: 9:30AM to 7:30PM

Call Us

+91 8090080906
+91 8090080907
+91 8866991000




    Add Your Heading Text Here

    Want to be a physical therapist ? Check Physioneeds Academy