Elbow Injuries
Common Injuries
Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Lateral epicondylitis, commonly called "tennis elbow," occurs when the muscles of the arm and forearm are repeatedly overused, causing small tears in the tendons. Irritation of the tendons, or soft tissue that connects muscles to bones, occurs on the outside of the elbow and is most often the result of overuse related to someone's job. When irritation is the result of tennis, pain usually occurs when the athlete is hitting a backhand stroke.
Symptoms include pain with gripping, shaking hands, opening doors, or carrying an object with the arm down by the side.
Medial epicondylitis (Little Leaguer's or Golfer's Elbow)
Medial epicondylitis, sometimes called little leaguer's or golfer's elbow, is characterized by pain on the inside of the elbow and is often the result of sports. Medial epicondylitis is often caused by improper mechanics in young overhead throwers or during a golf swing.
Symptoms include pain during overhead throws or during a golf swing. If untreated, the pain may start to limit daily activities, as well.
UCL sprain/Ulnar nerve irritation
The ulnar collateral ligament is one of the main bands of supporting connective tissues in the elbow. If medial epicondylitis is untreated and muscles on the inside of the elbow are unable to stabilize the elbow during overhead throwing or other overhead activities, the ligaments—or soft tissue that connects muscles to the bones—and nerves of the elbow bear added stress. This can cause tears in the UCL, compromising its strength and ability to hold the elbow in place. Sprains of the UCL typically occur slowly over time. As the UCL becomes loose, the ulnar nerve—the major nerve on the inside part of the elbow—may become stressed.
Symptoms include pain on the inside of the elbow with overhead throwing or other overhead activities. Irritation of the ulnar nerve may lead to a tingling sensation in the little finger.
Prevention
Follow these steps to prevent elbow injury:
1. Stretch the muscles on the inside and outside of the elbow, particularly during and after activity
2. Use proper mechanics for sporting activities, such as overhead throws, tennis swings, and golf swings.
3. Consider a larger grip size for your tennis racket.
4. Maintain strong muscles of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand.
Treatment
As most injuries of the elbow occur gradually, the initial phase of treatment is to rest or modify the activity that is inflaming the elbow. Ice can also be used. Apply a cloth-covered ice pack to the affected area for no more than 20 minutes at a time, three to four times a day. Seek medical advice if pain persists for more than 72 hours despite this treatment. Simple stretching and strengthening exercises will help you return to normal functioning.