-
Care for UCL/MCL and LCL Tears
Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injuries
If you suffer from stiffness in your elbow, a weakened grip and an inability to throw like you used to, you may have an injured elbow ligament.
Schedule An Appointment!
Dr. Abeyewardene
OSSO South
10001 S. Western, Suite 101
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Common Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injury Signs, Symptoms and Complaints
Medial collateral ligament (MCL) [also known as ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)] tears and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries have several common symptoms. Here are some common signs and complaints you might notice:
- Elbow and upper forearm swelling or bruising
- Elbow stiffness
- Inability to straighten your elbow
- Hand grip weakness
- Inability to throw a ball at full speed
- Pain over the inner or outer aspect of the elbow
- Hand numbness or tingling
- Clicking sensations
- Instability
What is an Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injury?
Ligaments are the bands of tissue that connect bones to each other, forming joints and giving them stability. A major ligament on the inner aspect of your elbow is the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), also known as the medial collateral ligament (MCL). This ligament connects your upper arm bone to the bones of your forearm across your elbow. When this ligament is torn or injured due to overuse or injury, it can result in a variety of problems from your elbow to your hands. You may also hear a “pop” when it is injured. Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries also occur, though less frequently, and are the result of damage to the ligament on the outer side of your elbow.
-
How Dr. Abeye Treats Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injuries
Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injuries are Highly Treatable
At Dr. Abeye’s clinic, we always begin with the most conservative, non-surgical approaches, increasing intervention levels as necessary to achieve relief from pain, increased strength and range of motion.
Non-Operative Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injury Intervention: “RICE”
The first treatment method we employ for MCL/UCL or LCL tears is casually known as “RICE”: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Anti-inflammatory medications, bracing and physical therapy are also useful at this stage.
Surgical Elbow Tendon & Ligament Injury Treatment: Tommy John Procedure
Known as the “Tommy John Procedure” for the famous baseball pitcher on whom it was first performed, MCL/UCL reconstruction repairs a torn ulnar collateral ligament, replacing it with a tendon from elsewhere in the body – known as a graft. This graft is usually taken from a tendon in your forearm. The surgery’s goal is to stabilize your elbow, while also reducing or eliminating pain and restoring range of motion.
This is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia.
What to Expect
When you schedule an appointment with Dr. Abeye to investigate a possible elbow tendon & ligament injury in our Oklahoma City clinic, you can expect a thorough examination of your elbow, imaging (if necessary), a conversation about your symptoms and education about what is likely happening. You’ll receive a diagnosis, plan of action and any necessary braces or medications.
If you’re ready for relief, give us a call to schedule your appointment.
Are Your Symptoms Different?
If your symptoms differ from those discussed above, you may be suffering from a different disorder. Here are some other common conditions that may be a better match.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Hand and finger numbness caused by tightening of the wrist’s carpal tunnel.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Weakness and numbness in your hands sometimes relieved by straightening your elbow.
-
Hand, Wrist & Elbow Specialist
Hand, Wrist & Elbow Orthopedic Expertise
About Our Office
Dr. Abeye is an experienced orthopedic hand surgeon, dedicated to – and fascinated by – the intricacies of the fingers, hands, wrists and elbows.
Patient Info
Find information about splint and cast care, pain management and more on our patient resource page.
Reach Out
Our office staff is here to help with whatever you need. Please don’t hesitate to call with your questions, concerns, or just to schedule your next appointment!