Category: Lateral Collateral Ligament Injury

Radial Collateral Ligament (LCL) of Elbow Injury

Posted on by Dr Dharam

Understanding the Radial Collateral Ligament of the Elbow

  • An important factor in joint stability is the elbow’s Radial collateral ligament.
  • It shields the elbow from undue varus strain.
  • Additionally, it keeps the forearm rotating smoothly during everyday and athletic tasks.
  • We regularly treat Radial elbow instability in athletes and active people at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre.

What Is the Radial Collateral Ligament of the Elbow?

  • The Radial collateral ligament complex lies on the outer side of the elbow.
  • It joins the ulna to the Radial epicondyle of the humerus.
  • It provides both static and dynamic stability by collaborating with the surrounding muscles.
  • During pushing and weight-bearing activities, it stops the elbow from opening abnormally.

Components and Classification

  • The Radial collateral ligament is a complex structure.
  • It includes several distinct parts.
  1. Radial Collateral Ligament
  2. Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament
  3. Annular Ligament

Causes of Radial Collateral Ligament Injury

  • Overload or trauma are the most common causes of Radial ligament injury.
  • The following are typical causes.
    • Fall on an outstretched hand with elbow extension
    • Repetitive pushing activities
    • Throwing sports with poor biomechanics
    • Elbow dislocations
    • Sudden varus stress during contact sports
  • At Elite Physiotherapy, we also see chronic injuries from improper training load.

Clinical Features and Symptoms

  • The intensity of the injury determines the symptoms.
  • Nonetheless, the following are typical clinical characteristics.
    • Pain in the lateral elbow
    • A sense of weakness or instability
    • Pain when pushing out of a chair
    • The sense of clicking or catching
    • Inadequate grasp strength
    • A decrease in self-assurance when participating in sports
    • When bearing weight on the hand, pain often worsens.

Diagnostic Methods and Investigations

  • Accurate diagnosis is essential for complete recovery.
  • At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we follow a structured approach.
    • Clinical Examination – Detailed history, Palpation, Range of motion, and functional tasks are assessed carefully.
    • Imaging Investigations- MRI provides a detailed visualization of ligament damage.

Physiotherapy Assessment Techniques

  1. Varus Stress Test
  2. Posterolateral Rotatory Instability Test
  3. Chair Push-Up Test

Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre

  • Physiotherapy is the first line of treatment in most cases.
  • Our management is individualized and sports-specific.

Phase 1: Pain and Protection

  • Initially, the focus is on pain control.
  • Activity modification prevents further ligament stress.
  • Cryotherapy and protective taping are used strategically.
  • Early gentle mobility prevents stiffness.

2nd Phase: Restore Mobility and Muscle Activation

  • Gradual range of motion exercises are introduced.
  • Forearm, wrist, and elbow mobility are restored carefully.
  • Isometric strengthening begins for pain-free activation.
  • Scapular stabilizers are trained simultaneously.

3rd Phase: Strengthening and Dynamic Stability

  • Progressive resistance exercises are introduced gradually.
  • Emphasis is placed on the wrist extensors and flexors.
  • The flexor-pronator and extensor-supinator groups are strengthened.
  • Closed-chain exercises improve joint co-contraction.
  • Proprioceptive drills enhance neuromuscular control.

Phase 4: Functional and Sports-Specific Training

  • Functional loading prepares the elbow for real demands.
  • Physiotherapists retrain throwing, pushing, or grappling patterns.
  • Kinetic chain integration reduces elbow overload.
  • Clinicians follow return-to-sport criteria strictly.

Advanced Physiotherapy Modalities Used

  • At Elite Physiotherapy, advanced technology enhances recovery.
  1. Shock Wave Therapy
  2. Super Inductive System
  3. High Intensity Laser Therapy
  4. Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy

Prevention and Long-Term Care

  • Prevention is essential for lasting elbow health.
  • Correct biomechanics reduce ligament stress.
  • Strength balance across the upper limb is crucial.
  • Regular mobility and recovery sessions prevent overload.
  • At Elite Physiotherapy, education is part of every program.

Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre?

  • We combine clinical expertise with advanced technology.
  • Physiotherapists personalize every program and focus it on clear goals.
  • Athletes receive sport-specific rehabilitation strategies.
  • Our focus remains on safe return to performance.

Final Words

  • You should never ignore Radial collateral ligament injuries.
  • Early physiotherapy ensures stability and confidence.
  • With expert care, full recovery is achievable.

Book your assessment at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre today.