Tommy John Surgery (UCL Reconstruction)
Tommy John Surgery (UCL Reconstruction) in Kansas City, MO
Tommy John Surgeon in Kansas City, MO
We are excited to share some big news at Ortho Health of KC! As part of our commitment to providing top-notch orthopedic care in Kansas City, we’ve launched a brand-new website dedicated exclusively to our Physical Therapy (PT) services. The new website, optkc.com, offers an enhanced online experience, making accessing information about our PT offerings and scheduling appointments easier.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Treatment
At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, our priority is guiding you through every stage of recovery with personalized, expert care. For patients experiencing an ulnar collateral ligament injury, commonly called a Tommy John injury, we provide comprehensive evaluation, rehabilitation, and, when necessary, coordination for surgical care. A Tommy John injury occurs when the UCL on the inner side of the elbow is stretched, torn, or ruptured. This ligament plays a crucial role in stabilizing the elbow, especially during repeated throwing or forceful arm movements. While most people associate Tommy John injuries with baseball pitchers, they can occur in athletes from other sports or in individuals performing repetitive motions in daily activities.
What Causes a Tommy John Injury?
Tommy John injuries most often develop from repetitive stress to the elbow joint. In sports such as baseball, javelin, or tennis, the repeated overhead motion can strain the UCL until it frays or tears. Weightlifting, manual labor, and even specific workplace tasks can also lead to damage over time. At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, we carefully evaluate the cause of your injury to address the root problem, knowing that a thorough understanding of why the injury happened is essential for both recovery and prevention of future elbow issues.
Do I Need Tommy John Surgery?
Not every UCL injury requires surgery. Many patients recover successfully with structured physical therapy that strengthens surrounding muscles, protects the ligament, and gradually restores motion while reducing pain. Activity modifications, bracing, and anti-inflammatory measures are often part of this non-surgical approach. However, when a UCL tear is more severe, particularly in athletes who need to return to high-level throwing, Tommy John surgery, also known as UCL reconstruction, may be the best option. This procedure replaces the damaged ligament with a tendon graft to restore strength and stability, giving patients the ability to return to their sport or normal daily activities safely.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Tommy John Surgery?
Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the injury, the type of surgery, and the patient’s activity goals. Throwing athletes may require nine to twelve months before returning to competition, while non-throwing individuals often recover in about six months. At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, we design individualized post-operative rehabilitation programs that progress from restoring range of motion to building strength, and finally to sport- or activity-specific training. Throughout this process, our team works closely with your surgeon to ensure every phase of recovery follows the appropriate medical guidelines and supports a complete, safe return to activity.
Why Choose Orthopedic Health of Kansas City for Tommy John Injury Treatment and Recovery?
Our approach is not limited to the elbow itself. We evaluate the entire kinetic chain, from shoulder mechanics to core stability, to correct underlying imbalances and reduce the risk of reinjury. By combining advanced rehabilitation techniques with a patient-centered, welcoming environment, we help athletes and non-athletes in the Kansas City area achieve lasting results. Whether your goal is returning to the mound or regaining comfortable, pain-free movement for daily life, Orthopedic Health of Kansas City is ready to help you take the next step in your recovery from a Tommy John injury. Reach out and book an appointment.