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Elbow Ligament Tears/Injury
Elbow ligament tears occur when the ligaments stabilising the elbow joint are damaged due to trauma or repetitive arm movements, particularly in athletes engaged in throwing or lifting. These injuries range from mild sprains to complete ruptures and, if untreated, may result in chronic pain, joint instability, and impaired arm function. Timely diagnosis and treatment are recommended to restore mobility and prevent long-term complications.
Dr Dennis Ng Zhaowen
Causes of Elbow Ligament Tears
Elbow ligament tears can result from various factors, ranging from sudden trauma to repetitive stress over time. Here are the most common causes:
- Falls on an Outstretched Arm: Common in high-contact sports like football, baseball, or accidents, leading to hyperextension of the elbow and ligament injuries.
- Direct Trauma or Blunt Impact: Impacts from accidents, such as car crashes, can overstretch or rupture ligaments, leading to pain and instability.
- Repetitive Stress from Overuse: Repetitive movements place continuous strain on the elbow’s ligaments, potentially causing microtears that may progress to complete tears if untreated.
Symptoms of Elbow Ligament Tears
The symptoms of an elbow ligament tear vary depending on the severity of the injury. Recognising these symptoms early is necessary for prompt treatment.
- Pain and Tenderness - Sharp pain localised on the inner or outer elbow that worsens with activities such as fully extending the arm, indicating a ligament strain or tear.
- Swelling - Often develops around the elbow after a tear, and bruising may occur in more severe cases.
- Instability or Weakness - A sensation of the elbow "giving out" during weight-bearing activities. Severe cases may present with numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers, suggesting nerve involvement.
Diagnosing Elbow Ligament Tears
A thorough diagnosis of elbow ligament injuries typically involves a review of the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic imaging.
Medical History Review
The doctor will review the patient’s medical history, including prior injuries and the onset of symptoms, to determine the potential cause and extent of the ligament damage.
Physical Examination
A physical exam involves assessing the elbow for pain, swelling, and instability. Specific tests, such as the valgus stress test, help evaluate ligament function and joint stability.
Imaging Tests
X-rays are used to rule out fractures, while MRIs provide detailed images of ligaments and soft tissue to confirm partial or complete tears. CT scans may be required in cases of suspected bone involvement and ultrasounds can also assess soft tissue damage.
Treatment Options for Elbow Ligament Tears
The treatment approach for elbow ligament tears depends on the severity of the injury, ranging from non-invasive methods to surgical intervention. Here are the available options:
Surgical Treatment
Surgical intervention is often necessary for complete ligament tears or injuries that do not respond to conservative treatments.
Ligament Repair
In cases where the ligament is torn but still attached, the surgeon stitches the damaged tissue together to restore stability and function. The procedure focuses on preserving the original ligament structure, promoting faster recovery when the damage is not extensive.
Ligament Reconstruction
For complete tears, the damaged ligament is replaced with a graft from the patient’s tendon or a donor, restoring joint strength and preventing further injury. Reconstruction is often used when the ligament cannot heal naturally, providing long-term stability, especially for athletes returning to high-performance activities.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatments are recommended for mild to moderate tears. These methods focus on reducing pain, promoting healing, and restoring function.
Activity Modification: Resting the elbow and avoiding stress-inducing activities, such as heavy lifting or sports, allows the ligament to heal naturally.
Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation begins with light exercises to maintain mobility and progresses to strengthening routines that restore stability and full range of motion. Therapists may also focus on improving joint mechanics to reduce the risk of reinjury during daily activities or sports.
Bracing or Splinting: Immobilisation with a brace or splint limits movement, preventing further strain and supporting recovery.
Medication Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Stronger prescription medications may be necessary in cases of severe pain.
Prevention Strategies
Using correct throwing techniques, particularly in sports like baseball, can reduce stress on the elbow ligaments and lower the risk of injury. Strengthening the forearm and shoulder muscles provides additional support to the elbow, minimising strain. Gradually increasing exercise intensity allows the body to adapt, which helps to prevent overload injuries. Rest days are required for recovery and to help avoid overuse injuries.
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Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road #08-41
Singapore 329563
Monday – Friday: 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Other Clinic Location
Gleneagles Medical Center
6 Napier Road #07-15
Singapore 258499
Monday – Friday: 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to recover from an elbow ligament tear?
Recovery time varies based on the severity of the tear and the treatment method. Mild to moderate tears treated with non-surgical methods may take 6 to 12 weeks for significant improvement. However, complete tears requiring surgery often need 6 to 12 months of rehabilitation. Athletes returning to competitive sports may take up to a year to regain full strength and functionality.
What are the long-term complications of an untreated elbow ligament tear?
If left untreated, elbow ligament tears can cause chronic pain, joint instability, and reduced range of motion. These issues may eventually lead to conditions like osteoarthritis or nerve damage, affecting arm function and quality of life.
How do I know if my elbow injury is a ligament tear or just a sprain?
While both sprains and ligament tears cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility, ligament tears often result in more severe instability or a “giving out” sensation in the joint. Imaging tests, such as an MRI, are required to accurately differentiate between a sprain and a tear.