Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury
In this case, the problem is an ulnar ligament that causes medial elbow pain. It is also an overuse injury triggered by recreational or occupational activities. Treatment is very similar to the ones mentioned above but has a few important variations:
- Surgery: Contrary to the rest of elbow pain causes, this is one of the few where surgery is considered an early treatment option. Conservative treatment is recommended for almost every patient, but professional athletes sometimes receive surgery before trying other conservative options.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential, especially in grades 1 and 2 partial tears. It is a very prolonged rehabilitation, and it is essential to follow your physical therapist’s advice every step of the way.
- Pain relief treatment: Other treatments mentioned above also work in this case to provide short-term pain relief. NSAIDs are helpful to reduce pain and inflammation, ice is also recommended to reduce swelling, and slings are helpful to immobilize the articulations and reduce the risk of a complete ligament tear.