I just was diagnosed through an MRI with UCL strain. Before diagnosis, I also could work with hand sideways action without pain. After diagnosis imaging, I took off two weeks and used the RICE recommendation. I returned to the gym on the 14th day and did only barbell pushing exersizes without pain. Cable work caused me to feel the injury, so I only did what was not irritating the injury site. I believe I received the injury pitching baseball to my 12 year old son(I am 64). An unloading furniture accident probably caused the acute injury which was likely vulnerable from the pitching practices.
I am going to continue to work out, continue with an alternate RICE and avoid exersizes that cause pain until completely better. Note, I bench pressed the most I had in over a year after two weeks off.
I have just been diagnosed with a partially torn UCL. I am a professional arm wrestler and it is crucial I don't loose too much muscle while I am healing. I was wondering if I can still go to the gym and work out my arm. Hammer curls and other exercises where my hand is sideways, palm facing left, doesn't hurt. Is it okay to do an exercise if it doesn't hurt my elbow, or do I need to shut it down completely?
Hi there!
Well, without a detailed clinical evaluation it would be difficult to comment specifically on the situation and without a definite diagnosis at hand it would be difficult to suggest a management plan. Possible causes of your symptoms that may need to be considered include stress fractures, injuries to ligaments/ tendons, cysts, inflammations, bursitis, tendonitis, degeneration etc. I would suggest getting this evaluated by a primary care physician or an orthopedician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this is helpful.
Take care!