What is a notable symptom associated with ulnar collateral ligament tear in adolescent pitchers?

What is a notable symptom associated with ulnar collateral ligament tear in adolescent pitchers?

• A. Pain at rest
• B. Paresthesia of the fourth and fifth digits
• C. Swelling at the elbow
• D. Inability to extend the arm

Answer: (B)

A notable symptom associated with an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear in adolescent pitchers is frequently paresthesia of the fourth and fifth digits. This symptom can occur due to the proximity of the ulnar nerve to the UCL, as the ulnar nerve runs along the pathway near the elbow joint. When the UCL is injured, it can lead to inflammation and swelling that may impinge on or irritate the ulnar nerve, thus causing sensations of tingling, numbness, or a "pins and needles" feeling specifically in the ring and little fingers. In contrast, while pain at rest, swelling at the elbow, and inability to extend the arm could be suggested symptoms in cases of varying upper extremity injuries, they are not as distinctive or commonly reported as paresthesia in connection with a UCL tear. Pain is more often associated with activity or specific motions, and swelling may not directly implicate nerve involvement. Additionally, inability to extend the arm could indicate other conditions, such as a different type of ligament or tendon injury, and is less characteristic for a UCL tear. Thus, paresthesia of the fourth and fifth digits serves as a significant clue in diagnosing a UCL tear in adolescent pitchers

A notable symptom associated with an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear in adolescent pitchers is frequently paresthesia of the fourth and fifth digits. This symptom can occur due to the proximity of the ulnar nerve to the UCL, as the ulnar nerve runs along the pathway near the elbow joint. When the UCL is injured, it can lead to inflammation and swelling that may impinge on or irritate the ulnar nerve, thus causing sensations of tingling, numbness, or a "pins and needles" feeling specifically in the ring and little fingers.

In contrast, while pain at rest, swelling at the elbow, and inability to extend the arm could be suggested symptoms in cases of varying upper extremity injuries, they are not as distinctive or commonly reported as paresthesia in connection with a UCL tear. Pain is more often associated with activity or specific motions, and swelling may not directly implicate nerve involvement. Additionally, inability to extend the arm could indicate other conditions, such as a different type of ligament or tendon injury, and is less characteristic for a UCL tear. Thus, paresthesia of the fourth and fifth digits serves as a significant clue in diagnosing a UCL tear in adolescent pitchers