UCL Injury in a Baseball Athlete

Course overview

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries are increasingly common among overhead athletes, particularly adolescent baseball pitchers. This case study explores the epidemiological trends and risk factors associated with these injuries, including early specialization, high-velocity programs, and year-round play. Clinicians will gain insight into the typical clinical presentation of partial UCL tears, key examination components such as the moving valgus stress test, and the role of dynamic stabilizers like the flexor-pronator mass. Emphasis is placed on nonoperative rehabilitation strategies, including progressive return-to-throwing protocols and the importance of shoulder and scapular strength in promoting elbow stability and successful outcomes.