Elbow Pain

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a painful condition that occurs when tendons in your elbow are overworked, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. It is usually caused by either an abrupt or subtle injury of the muscle and tendon area around the outside of the elbow where the muscles and tendons of the forearm attach to the lateral epicondyle (the outside bony area).

Although tennis elbow commonly affects tennis players, it also affects other athletes and anyone who participates in leisure or work activities that require repetitive arm, elbow, wrist, and hand movements.
Because many other conditions can cause pain around the elbow, it is important that you make an appointment with a doctor so the proper diagnosis can be made.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome, also called ulnar nerve entrapment is a condition caused by increased pressure on the ulnar nerve, which passes close to the skin’s surface in the area referred to as the “funny bone”.

The ulnar nerve travels down the back of the elbow behind the bony bump (the medial epicondyle), and through a passageway called the cubital tunnel.

Although you are likely to develop cubital tunnel syndrome from repeatedly leaning your elbow on a hard surface or bending it for sustained periods of times, it is can also be caused from intense physical activity such as throwing a baseball.

A proper diagnosis and treatment plan can ensure a full recovery of Cubital tunnel syndrome.

Ruptured Biceps Tendon

The biceps muscle, located in the front of the upper arm allows you to bend the elbow and rotate the arm. The biceps tendons attach the biceps muscle to the bones in the shoulder and in the elbow.

Ruptures of the biceps are classified as proximal (close) or distal (far). Distal ruptures are extremely rare. The proximal rupture occurs where the biceps attaches at the top of your shoulder. Although fairly uncommon, a tendon rupture can be a serious problem and may result in excruciating pain and permanent disability if untreated.

UCL Reconstruction

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is one of the main stabilizing ligaments in the elbow and is used during overhead activities such as throwing and pitching.

An UCL injury is caused by repetitive stress to the elbow or from trauma.

Although anyone can develop an UCL injury, pitchers at the highest risk because throwing motions that twist and bend the elbow put extreme stress on the ligament. Over time, the UCL can develop tiny or large tears until the ligament has stretched and lengthened to the point where it can’t hold the bones tightly enough during throwing activities. In order to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment of a UCL injury, you should see an orthopedic specialist.