Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair Treatment in India

Emma Shah, a 28-year-old high school...

Emma Shah, a 28-year-old high school art teacher and avid weekend rock climber, felt a sharp 'pop' in her right elbow while attempting a difficult overhang route. The initial pain subsided, but a persistent, deep ache and a feeling of instability in her elbow remained. Over the next few months, she noticed a significant loss of grip strength, struggling to hold her paintbrushes steady for detailed work and frequently dropping her climbing chalk bag. Her primary care physician referred her to an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Chen, who diagnosed a complete tear of her Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) from the repetitive stress of climbing. Dr. Chen recommended UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) to restore stability and allow her to return to her passions without pain. Emma underwent the procedure, which involved using a tendon graft from her forearm. The immediate post-op period was challenging, with her arm in a splint and sling, forcing her to adapt to one-handed living. She began a rigorous, months-long physical therapy protocol, starting with gentle range-of-motion exercises and gradually progressing to strengthening. A year later, Emma has regained nearly full strength and stability. She is back in the climbing gym on easier routes and can paint for hours without discomfort. Emotionally, she journeyed from frustration and fear, worried she might lose integral parts of her identity, to immense gratitude and patience, learning to celebrate small milestones in her recovery.