Welcome to the Elbow Page of Dr. Hans J. Poessel, a highly experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in the treatment of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) sprains. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Dr. Poessel is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to patients with UCL sprains. Here, we will explore the spectrum of this condition, helping you understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

The ulnar collateral ligament is a vital structure that stabilizes the inner side of the elbow joint. It helps to prevent excessive sideways movement and provides stability during activities such as throwing, lifting, and gripping. UCL sprains, also known as medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprains, occur when the ligament is stretched or torn due to trauma or repetitive stress.

Let’s dive into the spectrum of UCL sprains:

1. Grade 1 Sprain: A grade 1 UCL sprain is considered a mild injury, where the ligament is stretched but not torn. Patients may experience mild pain and swelling on the inner side of the elbow. There may also be some instability or looseness in the joint, but it is generally manageable and stays non surgically.

2. Grade 2 Sprain: A grade 2 UCL sprain is a moderate injury, characterized by a partial tear of the ligament. Patients may experience more significant pain, swelling, and bruising around the inner side of the elbow. The joint may feel unstable, and there may be difficulty in performing certain activities that require forceful gripping or throwing.

3. Grade 3 Sprain: A grade 3 UCL sprain is a severe injury where the ligament is completely torn. Patients may experience intense pain, swelling, and bruising in the elbow region. The joint may feel highly unstable, and there may be significant difficulty in using the arm for daily activities. In some cases, a popping or snapping sensation may be felt at the time of injury.

4. Treatment Options: The treatment for UCL sprains depends on the severity of the injury. For mild to moderate sprains (grade 1 and 2), non-surgical approaches are often effective. These may include rest, immobilization with a brace or splint, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. In more severe cases (grade 3), surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the torn ligament.

5. UCL reconstruction is a surgery used to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament inside the elbow by replacing it with a tendon from elsewhere in the body or Allograft (from dead bodies). The goal of the surgery is to stabilize the elbow, reduce or eliminate pain and restore stability and range of motion.

Dr. Hans J. Poessel understands the impact of UCL sprains on daily life and athletic performance of the throwing athlete. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of UCL injuries and will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and potentially imaging studies, to assess the extent of the sprain and guide the treatment plan.
Dr. Poessel believes in a patient-centered approach, providing you with comprehensive information about your condition and discussing all available treatment options. His expertise and experience ensure that you receive the highest quality care and achieve optimal outcomes.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a UCL sprain or seeking expert advice, we invite you to contact Dr. Hans J. Poessel’s clinic today. With his extensive experience and dedication to patient care, he will provide you with personalized treatment options and support throughout your journey to recover from your UCL sprain.

Take the first step towards regaining stability and function in your elbow by consulting with Doc Hans, your orthopaedic of choice.