Elbow Injuries & Conditions

Here are some common causes and risk factors for elbow injuries:

• Repetitive motionJobs or tasks such as painting, cleaning, and cooking, or sports involving catching or throwing.
• TraumaDirect impacts or falls can cause fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue injuries.
• Health conditionsInflammatory or autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis.
• Previous injuriesPrevious elbow injuries can make you susceptible to new injuries.

Here are some common signs and symptoms to watch out for:

• PainPersistent or severe pain, especially during or after activity.
• SwellingInflammation and swelling in the elbow joint or the surrounding area.
• Reduced range of motionLimited movement or stiffness when moving the elbow.
• WeaknessA sudden loss of strength or difficulty gripping objects.
• Numbness and tinglingPins and needles in the hand, forearm, or fingers.
• InstabilityYour elbow feels unstable or gives out during activity.
• Unusual soundsClicking, popping, or crunching noises when you move the elbow.

Below are some common elbow injuries and conditions, including causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Elbow Arthritis

Elbow arthritis can occur with wear and tear on the joint cartilage over time. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. To treat elbow arthritis, we recommend pain medication, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, joint replacement surgery.

Elbow Bursitis

Elbow bursitis happens when the membrane at the tip of the elbow becomes inflamed. Repetitive pressure or trauma usually causes this condition. Symptoms include swelling, warmth, redness, and pain at the back of the elbow. To treat it, we recommend rest, anti-inflammatory medications, draining any excess fluid, and padding to relieve pressure.

Elbow Fractures

Elbow fractures are usually a result of trauma or injury that fractures certain bones. For example, radial head fractures affect the head of the radius bone near the elbow. Olecranon fractures affect the tip of the elbow. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and deformity of the elbow. Treatment may include immobilizing the joint with a cast or splint. For complex cases, a treating surgeon may recommend surgery to repair the joint. Dr. Knight does not perform elbow fracture procedures.

Elbow Strains and Sprains

Strain and sprains happen when you overstretch or tear your ligaments. Strains often occur during activities that involve throwing, lifting, or gripping. Sprains can result from a fall or impact that forces the joint out of its normal range. Both conditions cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the elbow. You may hear or feel a popping or tearing sensation when you sprain your elbow. Mild injuries may improve with rest and using a brace or splint. A treating surgeon may recommend surgery for severe sprains to repair the damaged ligaments. Dr. Knight does not perform elbow ligament procedures.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when an injury compresses or irritates the ulnar nerve, which runs from the hand to the shoulder. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in your pinky and ring fingers. To treat this condition, we recommend splinting and physical therapy. In severe cases, we may recommend surgery to release the compressed nerve.

Here are some tips to prevent elbow injuries:

• Stretch before exerciseWarming up and stretching your muscles and joints before any exercise is key. This helps increase blood flow and flexibility.
• Strengthen the jointsRegular strength training targeting the forearm and upper arm muscles can improve the stability of the elbow joint.
• Use the right techniqueWhether you’re playing a sport or performing repetitive tasks, make sure to use the proper technique to avoid straining the elbow joint.
• Rest and recoverMake sure you get enough rest between activities to promote recovery and prevent injuries.
• Protect yourselfWear elbow pads or braces when engaging in contact sports or lifting heavy objects.
• Create an ergonomic workspaceIf your job involves repetitive arm movements, use ergonomic equipment to minimize strain on your elbow joint.
• Don’t overdo itVary your activities and give your elbows a rest in between tasks or sports.

If left untreated, your injury could get worse and cause permanent damage. This could mean reduced joint stability or long-term issues with elbow function. Therefore, early diagnosis is very important.

Here are some common treatment methods:

• RestThe first step in treating most elbow injuries is rest. Avoid activities that worsen pain to allow the injury to heal.
• Ice and compressionApplying ice and compression can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Physical therapyA physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
• MedicationWe may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Bracing or splintingWe may use a brace or splint to stabilize the elbow while it heals.
• Corticosteroid injectionsFor certain conditions, such as tennis elbow, we may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation.
• SurgeryIn severe cases, a treating surgeon may recommend surgery to repair damaged structures within the elbow joint. Dr. Knight does not perform elbow fracture or elbow ligament procedures.
• RehabilitationRehabilitation is crucial after any treatment. It helps you regain strength and function, prevents re-injury, and ensures a full recovery.

If you experience persistent elbow pain, reduced mobility, or other concerning symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our orthopedic surgeons at the Hand and Wrist Institute in Dallas. We can provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to get you on the road to recovery. Remember, preventing elbow injuries through proper care, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment is essential to maintain the health and function of your elbow.