UCL Reconstruction Rehabilitation Protocols

7 UCL Reconstruction rehabilitation protocols from 7 institutions, published 2018–2024. Weight-bearing progressions vary by institution — compare them in the table below before selecting a protocol.

Compare by institution

Institution	Weight-Bearing	Key Restrictions
iOrtho — Palmaris Longus or Gracilis Graft	Non-weight bearing on repaired upper extremity; hinged brace wks 1-6 (D/C at wk 6 if full…	No active elbow flexion or forearm supination until wk 4; no lifting until wk 8; no valgus stress to graft…
Massachusetts General Hospital — (Palmaris Longus or Gracilis…	No WB restrictions — UE protocol; hinged brace wks 1-6; posterior splint at 90 deg wk 1	Avoid valgus stress to elbow throughout; no shoulder ER isometrics Phase I; no ER strengthening until wk 6…
Orthopaedic Associates of Maine	FWB; long-arm splint 0-10 days; hinged brace 10 days-6 wks	Long-arm splint 0-10 days; hinged brace with progressive ROM 10 days-6 wks; no valgus stress 6 wks-3 months…
Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (OSMS) — Elbow MCL…	Sling for comfort; Bledsoe brace at 75 deg with wrist free x 2 wks, adjust 30 deg to full…	Compressive dressing changed at 7-10 days; avoid aggressive weightlifting (esp. chest flies or…
Saint Louis University (SLUCare)	N/A	Splint at 70 deg wk 0-1; brace 40-80 deg wks 1-4; avoid valgus stress at elbow; no ER strengthening until wk…
Sutter Health / Palo Alto Medical Foundation — Elbow UCL…	N/A (upper extremity)	Splint 1 week; no valgus stress; sling optional wk 1-2; total body conditioning from wk 2; easy tossing at…
UW Health Sports Medicine — Elbow UCL Reconstruction	N/A (elbow surgery)	Week 1: hard brace at 90°; Week 2: brace 30°-100° (rehab ROM 15°-110°); Week 3: brace 20°-100° (rehab ROM…