Tommy John Surgery, medically known as ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction, is a procedure designed to repair a torn UCL inside the elbow. This ligament is essential for stabilizing the elbow joint—especially in athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions like baseball pitchers, tennis players, and javelin throwers.
Named after the first professional athlete to undergo and return from the surgery, it has become a common intervention to restore elbow function and alleviate pain.
UCL injuries are typically the result of repetitive stress and overuse. Athletes who push their elbows through thousands of overhead motions are particularly at risk. Over time, this stress can cause micro-tears that accumulate and eventually lead to a rupture.
Key contributing factors include:
mechanics that increase strain
and insufficient recovery time
and long-term wear from repetitive motion
UCL injuries can vary in severity, but common signs include:
Pain on the inner side of the elbow
Swelling and tenderness
Decreased throwing velocity or loss of performance
Instability or looseness in the elbow
Numbness or tingling radiating down the forearm to the fingers
Rest and activity modification to reduce strain
Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
At Aven Clinic, we emphasize regenerative, non-surgical treatments that use the body’s own biology to heal. Two of the most powerful options are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy and Stem Cell Therapy.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Stimulates healing with concentrated growth factors from your own blood
Reduces inflammation at the source of pain
Enhances recovery and accelerates return to activity
Stem Cell Therapy
Regenerates damaged ligament tissue with your own stem cells
Reduces pain and calms inflammation naturally
Promotes durable, long-term healing
Faster recovery and return to play
Lower risk of complications such as infection or anesthesia reaction
Natural healing using your body’s own resources
Long-term improvements in joint strength and function
Choosing regenerative therapies first offers several advantages over surgery:
These advanced treatments are well-suited for:
Athletes who want to recover quickly and avoid surgery
Active adults seeking natural, science-based healing options
Patients with partial UCL tears or chronic overuse injuries
Anyone looking for a safer, less invasive path to long-term elbow health
At Aven Clinic, we believe surgery should be a last resort—not the first step. Our approach focuses on advanced, regenerative therapies that restore function, reduce pain, and support long-term performance.
Our care is:
Grounded in the latest regenerative science
Tailored to your biology, your lifestyle, and your goals
Helping you take control of your recovery
Focused on possibility, resilience, and strength
Your health is your greatest investment. With the right treatment, you can recover, return to activity, and continue living at full capacity—without unnecessary downtime.
