Elbow Injuries

The spring sports season involves both throwing and racquet sports. As a result, elbow injuries are quite common this time of year. Like shoulder injuries, elbow injuries in sports can be debilitating. They are most often caused by overuse or by a fall on the outstretched hand/arm. The most common overuse elbow injuries in sports are lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), medial epicondylitis (little league, golfer’s or javelin thrower’s elbow), and sprains/tears to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), which is at the inside bottom of the joint. More severe injuries include those to the growth plate and those that cause bone disruption (either acute or chronic). Evaluation of these injuries involves seeking out the underlying cause (volume of activity, technique, mechanics, equipment, flexibility). Conservative treatment measures should be started at the onset of symptoms. Medical care should be sought if pain persists, worsens or doesn’t respond to conservative treatment.

For more information on the causes of and treatments for elbow injuries, as well as information on when to seek medical treatment, click here.

Physician appointments:
Guthrie Clinic Sayre, Sayre, PA - (570) 882-2239
Guthrie Medical Erwin, Painted Post, NY - (607) 937-4900

Athletic trainer & sports rehabilitation appointments:
HealthWorks, Painted Post, NY - (607) 937-4800
Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA - (570) 882-4808