Tommy John Surgery in San Francisco, CA

Elbow Surgeons in San Francisco, CA

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Common questions

How long is recovery from Tommy John surgery?

For pitchers, return to competition commonly takes twelve to eighteen months, moving through strength work and a progressive throwing program. Non-throwing activities return much sooner.

Does a UCL tear always need surgery?

No. Partial tears are often treated first with rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to throwing; some athletes also discuss newer repair options with their surgeon. Reconstruction is typically for complete tears or failed non-surgical care in throwers.

What is the difference between UCL repair and reconstruction?

Repair stitches the athlete's own ligament, sometimes with reinforcing tape, and may allow a faster return in select tears. Reconstruction replaces the ligament with a graft and remains the standard for many complete tears, candidacy depends on tear location and tissue quality.

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