Ligament Tears

Ligaments are tough, fibrous bands that connect bones and stabilize joints. Ligament tears in the upper extremity — from the fingers and wrist to the elbow — are common sports injuries that can cause joint instability, pain, and long-term dysfunction if not properly treated.

Common Ligament Injuries of the Upper Extremity

Scapholunate ligament tears are the most common wrist ligament injury and can lead to progressive wrist instability and arthritis if untreated. They typically result from a fall on an outstretched hand.

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the thumb occur from forced radial deviation of the thumb. UCL injuries of the elbow (Tommy John injury) are common in overhead athletes. Finger collateral ligament injuries are frequent in ball sports.

Treatment

Partial ligament tears and stable injuries are often managed with immobilization in a cast or splint, followed by protected range-of-motion exercises and strengthening.

Complete tears causing joint instability typically require surgical repair or reconstruction. Acute UCL tears of the thumb are repaired primarily; chronic tears may require ligament reconstruction using a tendon graft.

Common Symptoms

Joint pain and swelling after injury
Feeling of instability or looseness
Bruising around the joint
Difficulty gripping or pinching
Pain with specific movements
Abnormal joint laxity on examination

Treatment Options

Immobilization and casting for partial tears
Surgical ligament repair for complete tears
Ligament reconstruction with tendon graft
Arthroscopic wrist ligament repair
Thumb UCL repair or reconstruction
Structured rehabilitation and hand therapy

Ready to Get Help?

Dr. Kinchelow specializes in treating ligament tears. Schedule a consultation today.

Request Appointment (954) 635-5300