Stopping Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Sprains

As players know, baseball demands a high amount of powerful overhand throwing. Whether players are pitching or throwing the ball around the bases, this constant stress placed on the elbow can add up to a painful UCL injury and put and end to a player’s season. Luckily, learning about the injury and wearing proper gear will help keep players healthy and on the field.

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WHAT CAUSES A UCL INJURY?

UCL injuries are most often seen in athletes that play “overhead” sports, or a sport that requires using the arms in an overhead position, like pitching. This constant, powerful motion will slowly start to cause repetitive stress damages to the elbow. Over time, these damages will worsen the stability of the elbow and result in soreness, swelling, feeling like your elbow might give out when moved a certain way, pain when throwing, and even slower pitching speeds. In a game where powerful throws can make or break an inning, slower pitching is not an option. Luckily, there are ways to stop UCL sprains in their tracks.

HOW TO HEAL AN EMERGING UCL INJURY

Though painful, a UCL injury does not have to end a player’s time on the field when approached properly. For example, the Bauerfeind Sports Elbow Brace is specifically designed to prevent and heal developing injuries like hyperextension and UCL sprains thanks to its Boa® Closure System.

When players throw, this tension activates a counter-reaction in the forearm to take the stress away from the joint. This protects the elbow from further damage when throwing without restricting a player’s movement. With greater stability and customizable relief, the Sports Elbow Brace gives players greater confidence when throwing, elbow stability, and pain-free innings.