Elbow
The elbow is a hinged joint that bends the arm and allows the forearm to rotate. These movements are needed for everyday tasks, like reaching and carrying, as well as athletic motions like throwing and lifting.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injuries
The ulnar collateral ligament, or UCL, stabilizes the inside of the elbow joint. UCL injuries most often occur from repeated stress to the elbow joint, which commonly occurs in athletes who throw, like baseball pitchers. They can also occur with injuries like falls, causing pain at the inside of the elbow.
What is an Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury?
Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis
A sudden injury or repeated stress over time can strain the UCL. When the ligament is damaged, movement of the elbow may be painful, and the joint can become unstable. These symptoms can limit the ability to play sports and exercise comfortably.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury Treatment
With and without surgery
Rest, bracing, physical therapy, and a change in activity can help manage pain from UCL injuries. If pain continues to limit use of the arm, a health care provider may recommend surgery to stabilize the elbow and restore its function.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury Surgery
Surgical animation
Surgery for a UCL tear involves using an anchor or screw to reattach the ligament to the elbow. A reinforcing suture may also be used to further support the ligament.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury Surgery
Surgical demonstration
To repair a torn UCL, an incision is made along the inner side of the elbow. This allows the surgeon to access the torn ligament and reattach it to the bone.
Biceps Tendon Tears at the Elbow
The biceps muscle is a strong muscle of the arm that bends the elbow. Strain or injury to the arm can tear the tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the forearm bone. Biceps tendon tears result in pain, swelling, and weakness that can limit the ability to use the arm.
What is a Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow?
Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis
Biceps tendon tears at the elbow are generally uncommon but almost always result from a sudden injury. The most common cause of a biceps tendon tear at the elbow is lifting something heavy, like a box, furniture, or weights.
Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow Treatment
With and without surgery
With significant tears, surgery may be needed to repair the biceps tendon. This gives the patient the best chance to return to their desired activity level.
Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow Surgery
Surgical animation
Surgery for a biceps tendon tear at the elbow involves using an anchor or screw to reattach the tendon to the forearm bone. This can help restore the ability of the biceps muscle to function properly.
Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow Surgery
Surgical demonstration
To repair a torn biceps tendon, an incision is made along the front of the arm. This allows the surgeon to access the torn tendon and reattach it to the bone.
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
A common overuse injury, Tennis Elbow occurs when repetitive motions strain the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, causing pain and stiffness. It’s often seen in athletes and individuals with jobs requiring repetitive arm movements.
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis
Lateral Epicondylitis, commonly known as Tennis Elbow, is a condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to inflammation or small tears in the tendons that attach to the outer elbow. Symptoms often include pain, weakness, and difficulty with activities such as gripping or lifting objects.
Tennis Elbow Treatment
With and without surgery
Initial treatment focuses on rest, activity modification, and physical therapy to reduce strain on the elbow. Pain relief methods such as anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, or corticosteroid injections can also help manage symptoms. In cases where pain persists despite conservative treatment, surgical options may be considered.
Tennis Elbow Surgery
Surgical animation
If nonsurgical methods fail to provide relief, surgery may be recommended to remove damaged tendon tissue and restore function. This procedure is typically performed using minimally invasive techniques to promote faster recovery and reduce downtime.
