Overview
The lateral collateral ligament complex supports the outside of the elbow. It includes the radial collateral ligament, lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), annular ligament and an accessory band.
The radial collateral ligament blends with the annular ligament. The LUCL runs from the lateral epicondyle toward the supinator crest of the ulna and is particularly important for resisting posterolateral rotational instability.
Common Problems
The complex may be injured during an elbow dislocation or a fall that twists the forearm. Some people notice apprehension, clicking or a sense that the elbow may shift when pushing up from a chair. Outer-elbow tendon pain is much more common and can feel similar.
When to Get It Assessed
A repeated shifting sensation, symptoms after dislocation or difficulty trusting the arm during pushing should be assessed rather than treated as routine tennis elbow.
References
- StatPearls. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Elbow Collateral Ligaments.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560907/