An elbow ligament injury refers to damage or tearing of one or more of the ligaments that connect the bones of the elbow joint. The elbow joint is composed of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the radius (forearm bone), and the ulna (forearm bone). The ligaments in the elbow provide stability to the joint and help keep the bones in place during movement.
Elbow ligament injuries are commonly seen in athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive throwing or overhead movements, such as baseball, tennis, or volleyball. The most common type of elbow ligament injury is known as a "Tommy John" injury, which refers to a tear in the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) on the inner side of the elbow.
Symptoms of an elbow ligament injury can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the elbow joint. In more severe cases, there may be bruising, numbness, or weakness in the affected arm.
Treatment for an elbow ligament injury depends on the severity of the injury and the individual's symptoms. Non-surgical treatment options may include rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy to help reduce pain and restore strength and range of motion. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the damaged ligament.