Protecting the UCL
The most important ligament in baseball.
For parents and athletes
The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is the structure that stabilizes the inside of the elbow under the extreme stress of throwing. Most players do not do enough to protect it until there is a problem.
The harsh reality
- UCL injuries are at an all-time high, with Tommy John surgeries increasing across all levels of baseball.
- Not just pitchers are at risk. Catchers, shortstops and outfielders are at risk too.
- Pitchers are throwing harder than ever, but training, recovery and workload management have not caught up.
Common symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Loss of velocity or throwing control
- Pain with acceleration or release
- A pop followed by immediate pain
- Tingling into the ring or small finger
Important: “Tommy John” refers to both the injury and the reconstruction surgery. Not every UCL injury requires surgery.
Primary guidance: AAOS throwing injuries in children
Seeing SLMA Sports Medicine
Joseph Michael Garcia, MD
Primary Care Sports Medicine & Family Medicine
Joseph Michael Garcia, MD is a physician specializing in family medicine and sports medicine. Fellowship trained in sports medicine at the University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, residency at LSU – Alexandria, and board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He cares for athletes of every age — injury evaluation, non-surgical treatment, concussion care, sports physicals, and return-to-play planning.
Call to be seen985-262-1639
SLMA Comprehensive Health Clinic, Houma605 Enterprise Drive, Suite B, Houma, LA 70360
Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
SLMA Sports Medicine | 985-262-1639 — General education only. Follow stricter league rules and your clinician's instructions. Coaches do not diagnose or treat injuries.
