What is a radial collateral ligament?

Medical Definition of radial collateral ligament 1 : a triangular ligament of the elbow that connects the lateral epicondyle with the lateral side of the annular ligament and helps to stabilize the elbow joint. — called also lateral collateral ligament.

Is the radial collateral ligament the same as the lateral collateral ligament?

The radial collateral ligament (RCL) is a strong, short, thin band of tissue that connects from the humerus (upper arm bone) to the radius (one of two forearm bones). The radial collateral ligament may also be referred to as the lateral collateral ligament (LCL).

What does the radial collateral ligament support?

The medial (ulnar) collateral ligament (MCL) supports the ulnohumeral and radiohumeral joints medially, and is a fan-shaped structure. The lateral (radial) collateral ligament (LCL) also supports the ulnohumeral and radiohumeral joints, but laterally. It is more of a cord-like structure.

What is the role of the ulnar and radial collateral ligaments?

CONCLUSION. The radial and ulnar collateral ligaments of the wrist are true ligaments and can be seen at the floor of the first and the sixth extensor compartments, respectively, using high-resolution US. Based on their anatomic location, they most likely provide static stability to the wrist joint.

How long does a torn radial collateral ligament take to heal?

Most athletes have a relatively fast recovery time, returning to normal activities within two to three weeks after a mild elbow LCL injury. If you have a more severe injury that requires surgery, recovery takes about three months.

What movement does the radial collateral ligament prevent?

These ligaments prevent excessive abduction and adduction of the elbow joint. The AL wraps around the radial head and holds it tight against the ulna.

How do you strengthen the ulnar collateral ligament?

Wrist active range of motion, flexion and extension: Bend the wrist of your injured arm forward and back as far as you can. Do 2 sets of 15. Wrist stretch: Press the back of the hand on your injured side with your other hand to help bend your wrist. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.

How is collateral ligament injury treated?

Lateral collateral ligament tears do not heal as well as medial collateral ligament tears do. Grade 3 lateral collateral ligament tears may require surgery. In some cases, all that is required is rest, wearing a brace, taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen and having physical therapy.

What does a torn ulnar collateral ligament feel like?

Pain on the inner side of the elbow is the most common symptom of a UCL injury. A UCL tear may sometimes feel like a “pop” after throwing followed by intense pain. UCL injuries are diagnosed by physical examination and a valgus stress test to assess instability of the elbow.

How long does a ulnar collateral ligament take to heal?

If your UCL tear can be treated without surgery, the recovery may last anywhere from several weeks to several months.

How do you know if your ulnar collateral ligament is torn?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have a UCL injury: Clumsiness and weakness of hand grip. Elbow pain and stiffness. Loss of function in the elbow and arm.

How long does collateral ligament take to heal?

It may take up to eight weeks to fully recover, depending on the grade of your injury. If the lateral collateral ligament was torn where it attaches to the thighbone (femur) or shinbone (tibia), the surgeon will reattach the ligament to the bone using large stitches or a metal bone staple.

What is radial collateral?

The radial collateral ligament (RCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), or external lateral ligament is a ligament in the elbow on the side of the radius.

What is radial ligament?

Can a radial head fracture complicate a collateral ligament injury?

Associated fractures of the coronoid process or radial head or avulsion fractures at the origin of the collateral ligaments may complicate the ligamentous injury. 18 In a small subset of patients, adequate healing of the lateral supporting structures does not occur and posterolateral rotatory instability may ensue.

How to tell if you have a lateral collateral ligament injury?

Elbow lateral collateral ligament injuries are most common in these sports: The most common symptom of a lateral collateral ligament injury is pain on the outside of your elbow after a fall. You may also notice a clicking sound or catching sensation in your elbow when you extend your arm.