Medial collateral ligament instability and ulnar neuritis in the athlete's elbow.

Athletes who participate in overhand sports may sustain a host of injuries to the medial elbow. The chronic repetitive stress caused by the high velocity nature of the overhand throwing mechanism predisposes these athletes to overuse injuries. Medial collateral ligament instability and ulnar neuritis are common disorders seen in this patient population. A thorough understanding of the anatomy of the medial elbow as well as the pathophysiology of these disorders and their nonsurgical and surgical treatments are essential to providing these athletes with optimal care and hastening their return to sports.