Some of the common elbow injuries we treat include:

Elbow Pain and Swelling

It is important to be seen immediately for pain or swelling in the elbow as this may be the sign of an underlying injury such as a tendon, ligament or bone injury.

Golfer’s Elbow or Tennis Elbow

Golfer’s or Tennis Elbow injuries are caused by overuse or injury to the tendons that attach at the bony point of the elbow.  Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, numbness or tenderness in the elbow as well as pain that begins at the elbow and radiates into the arm.

UCL Injuries

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is the ligament that attaches and provides stability to the upper arm and forearm.  UCL injuries can vary in severity from sprains to partial or complete tears.  It is common for throwing athletes to sustain UCL injuries, but the UCL can also be injured as the result of falling onto an outstretched arm or a sudden accident.  Common symptoms include pain, weakness, swelling, bruising or a tearing sensation in the elbow.

Elbow Dislocations and Fractures

Elbow fractures and dislocations most commonly occur during contact sports, but can also be the result of a sudden accident or slip and fall.  If the elbow is dislocated, it means that one of the bones of the elbow has been shifted outside of its normal position in the joint.  If the elbow is fractured, it means that one of the bones that comprise the elbow joint has been broken.  The severity of the fracture can vary, but if any portion of the bone is visible outside of the skin, please go to nearest Emergency Room.  Common symptoms of elbow dislocations and fractures include pain, a “popping” or “snapping” sound when the injury occurred, bruising, swelling or a visible deformity under the skin.

Biceps Tendon Injuries

The bicep muscle is comprised of two tendons in the arm.  One of these tendons attaches at the shoulder and the other tendon attaches at the elbow.  Biceps tendon injuries can be the result of a sudden accident or from repetitive overuse.  The severity of these injuries can range from strains to complete tears.  Common symptoms a biceps tendon injuries include pain, swelling, bruising, weakness, hearing a “pop” when the injury occurred and difficulty rotating the arm.