Elbow Ligament Injuries
Elbow ligaments can be injured in falls, dislocations or the repeated strain of throwing sports. Accurate diagnosis helps prevent lasting instability of the elbow.
The elbow is a complex joint between the upper arm and forearm bones that allows both bending and straightening and rotation of the forearm. Its stability comes mainly from the collateral ligaments on the inner and outer sides. When these ligaments are injured, pain, instability and loss of strength can follow.
How are elbow ligaments injured?
- Falls and dislocation: Falling onto an outstretched arm can dislocate the elbow and tear the ligaments.
- Throwing sports: Repeated strain in volleyball, handball, tennis, javelin and baseball can wear the inner (ulnar collateral) ligament.
- Sudden strain: The arm being forced outwards or inwards.
- Repeated steroid injections: Can weaken the outer ligament.
Symptoms
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the elbow
- Pain and loss of performance when throwing
- A feeling that the elbow gives way, slips or might come out
- Swelling, bruising and limited movement
- With inner ligament injuries, numbness in the little and ring fingers may occur
Diagnosis
The ligaments are tested by stressing the elbow at different angles. X-rays show fractures and bone fragments. MRI shows whether the ligament is partly or fully torn and whether the cartilage is damaged. Stress imaging is used when needed.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Partial tears and stable elbows are protected for a short time, followed by movement and strengthening exercises. In athletes, correcting throwing technique is part of treatment. PRP injections may be used as support in suitable patients.
Surgical treatment
Complete tears, elbows that remain unstable after dislocation and athletes who do not respond to non-surgical care are treated with ligament repair or reconstruction. Reconstruction creates a new ligament using a graft from the patient’s own tendon. If a fracture accompanies a dislocation, it is fixed in the same operation.
Recovery
After surgery, the elbow is protected for a while with a splint or a hinged brace. Controlled movement exercises start early to prevent stiffness. Returning to daily activities takes a few weeks, while returning to throwing sports can take months.
Prevention in athletes
In throwing sports, the way to protect the elbow ligaments is correct technique, regular strength and flexibility work and a controlled increase in load. Strong shoulder and core muscles reduce the stress on the elbow during throwing. Limiting training and match volume is advised for young athletes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need surgery after an elbow dislocation?
Most simple elbow dislocations heal with short protection and physiotherapy after being put back in place. Surgery is needed if there is a fracture or the elbow stays unstable.
Will my elbow stay stiff?
The elbow tends to stiffen when kept still for long periods. This is why controlled movement is started as early as possible.
When can athletes return to play?
After partial tears, return ranges from a few weeks to a few months. After reconstruction, returning to throwing sports takes longer and follows a staged programme.
Does PRP help elbow ligament injuries?
PRP may be added to physiotherapy for some partial tears. Suitability depends on the type of tear.
The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. An examination is needed to decide which treatment suits you.